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- Tasks: Support and motivate pupils with additional needs in a dynamic classroom environment.
- Company: Join a fantastic SEN school in Reading dedicated to empowering neurodivergent children.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, shadow professionals, and develop skills for your future career.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young lives while preparing for a rewarding career in educational psychology.
- Qualifications: University degree preferred; experience with SEN is a plus but not essential.
- Other info: Full-time role, Monday to Friday, with a competitive daily rate.
Are you a recent university graduate? Are you interested in mental health and neurodiversity? Do you want to build your experience before becoming a qualified educational psychologist?
A fantastic SEN school in Reading is looking for a Learning Support Assistant (LSA) to help support and motivate their pupils with additional needs. The children in the school have a range of special educational needs - this includes Autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, multi-sensory impairments, speech and communication challenges and physical disabilities. The students therefore require a Graduate who is bubbly, understanding, empathetic and patient.
By working as a Learning Support Assistant, you will be provided with all the skills needed to undergo training as an Educational Psychologist in the future. Not only will you gain first-hand experience working with neurodivergent children, you will also learn how to implement individualised support plans and learning strategies in the classroom in order for each child to reach their full potential. You will also be provided with the unique opportunity of shadowing the psychologist and therapist based on-site at the school and be able to learn from them ahead of your future career.
In this Reading SEN school, no two days are the same. However, your general duties will involve working closely with a small group of SEN pupils in the classroom, supporting both their learning and emotional needs. You will ensure each child stays on track with their work, meets their milestones, and help the class teacher to make the classroom a fun and exciting environment. Personal care, such as toileting and feeding may also be required.
If you are looking for a rewarding career where you can help change the lives of vulnerable young people, then this is the role for you!
The ideal candidate will have a university degree (Psychology or Criminology would be perfect) and a C in GCSE Maths and English. Experience with SEN is desired but not essential.
Full time, Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 3:30pm. If you feel this role will provide you with the experience you need, then apply today!
Aspiring Educational Psychologist employer: Academics LTD
Contact Detail:
Academics LTD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Aspiring Educational Psychologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the field of educational psychology. Attend local workshops, seminars, or online webinars related to mental health and neurodiversity. This will not only enhance your knowledge but also help you make valuable connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain relevant experience by volunteering or shadowing professionals in SEN settings. This hands-on experience will give you insights into the daily responsibilities of a Learning Support Assistant and demonstrate your commitment to working with children with additional needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of the children you’ll be supporting. Research common conditions like Autism and ADHD, and learn about effective strategies for supporting these students. This knowledge will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your personal qualities that align with the role, such as empathy, patience, and understanding. Think of examples from your past experiences that showcase these traits, as they are crucial for working effectively with SEN pupils.
We think you need these skills to ace Aspiring Educational Psychologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experiences and skills that align with the role of a Learning Support Assistant. Emphasise any experience you have with children, particularly those with special educational needs, and showcase your understanding of mental health and neurodiversity.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for working with children with additional needs. Share specific examples of how your background in psychology or criminology has prepared you for this role, and express your eagerness to learn from the on-site psychologist and therapist.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your university degree and any relevant qualifications, such as GCSEs in Maths and English. If you have any certifications or training related to SEN, be sure to mention them as well.
Showcase Your Soft Skills: In your application, emphasise your personal qualities such as empathy, patience, and understanding. These traits are crucial for supporting children with special educational needs, so make sure they shine through in your writing.
How to prepare for a job interview at Academics LTD
✨Show Your Passion for Mental Health
Make sure to express your genuine interest in mental health and neurodiversity during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or coursework that highlight your commitment to supporting children with special educational needs.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Understanding
Since the role requires working closely with vulnerable young people, it's crucial to showcase your empathetic nature. Prepare examples of how you've shown patience and understanding in past situations, whether in academic settings or personal experiences.
✨Familiarise Yourself with SEN Strategies
Before the interview, research common strategies used in supporting students with special educational needs. Being able to discuss these strategies will show that you're proactive and ready to contribute positively to the classroom environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the school's approach to supporting SEN pupils. This not only demonstrates your interest in the role but also gives you a better understanding of the school's culture and expectations.
