At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with Special Educational Needs in their learning journey.
- Company: Join a vibrant college community dedicated to inclusivity and student success.
- Benefits: Enjoy term-time only work, competitive salary, and great employee perks.
- Other info: Flexible hours, ongoing training, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your career in education.
- Qualifications: GCSE English and Maths required; experience with SEND is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 28000 £ per year.
Activate Learning is recruiting dedicated, enthusiastic, compassionate, and motivated Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) to join our team at Guildford College, supporting students with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND). Our college is committed to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment for young people and adults with a range of additional needs. As part of our dedicated support team, you will play a key role in helping students achieve independence, confidence, and success in their education and future pathways.
As a Learning Support Assistant, you will provide in-class and direct support to students aged 16-25 enrolled in a wide range of academic and vocational programmes, including GCSEs, LifeSkills and A-levels. You will help learners overcome barriers to learning and reach their full potential, supporting their progress in both practical and academic environments. You will support students both academically and pastorally, helping them to stay engaged, organised and confident in their learning. This may include supporting students in lessons, encouraging participation, helping learners manage anxiety or low confidence, and assisting them to develop positive study habits and social skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide 1:1 and small group support to students with SEND (This could range from entry level to GCSE’s and Level 3 courses)
- Assist students to access the curriculum and achieve their individual learning goals
- Support the development of independence, life skills, and employability skills
- Promote positive behaviour and emotional wellbeing
- Adapt resources and approaches to meet individual needs
- Work collaboratively with tutors and support services
- Support students with personal care and medication requirements where needed as part of the Learning Support Assistant role
- Attend and complete relevant training, including personal care, medication, and manual handling training
Contract Type: Fixed-Term Contract (from August 2026 until July 2027) with the potential to be extended or made permanent.
Working Pattern: We are recruiting for a range of term-time only positions, with the addition of two weeks staff training at the beginning and end of the academic year. Contracted hours available are 35, 28 and 21 hours per week, between the hours of 8:30am to 5:00pm.
What do you need to be a successful Learning Support Assistant at Activate Learning?
- Experience working with young people or adults with SEND (desirable but not essential)
- Minimum GCSE English and Maths grade C/level 4 or above.
- A patient, empathetic, and positive approach
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to build trusting relationships with students
- Flexible, proactive, and able to work as part of a team
- Commitment to inclusion and safeguarding
If you’re passionate about making a meaningful impact and want to join a supportive, learner-centred team, this is an excellent opportunity to begin or further your career in education. You’ll work within a vibrant college environment where your contribution plays an important role in supporting student success and wellbeing.
What We Offer
- A supportive and inclusive college community
- Ongoing training and professional development in SEND and specialist support
- Development opportunities within the role can include access to relevant training and apprenticeship pathways, including Level 3 Teaching Assistant programmes.
- Opportunities to develop your career within further education
- A rewarding role where you can make a real difference to students’ futures
Employee Benefits
- Monthly Staff Appreciation Awards: Celebrating staff for their dedication and accomplishments aligned to our award-winning Learning Philosophy.
- Wellbeing & Resources Groups: Comprehensive range of resources, guides and tools to support staff wellbeing
- Company benefits: Including free eye tests and will writing, plus access to a Health Cash Plan covering optical, dental, health screening, and therapy treatments for you and your dependents.
- Learning and Development: continuous opportunities for professional growth and skill enhancement through our in-house L&D team.
- Pension Schemes: Local Government pension schemes for AL staff
- Generous Annual Leave: Up to 6 weeks paid leave
- Competitive salaries: Annual incremental progression and a twelve point pay scale for teachers.
- On-Site Facilities: Free parking at all campuses, refectories, hair and beauty salons & gym access.
Activate Learning is committed to safeguarding and expect all our staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to undergo a DBS check at the appropriate level. Applications are encouraged from all candidates who meet or exceed minimum criteria, regardless of age, disability, gender, orientation, race, religion, or ethnicity. Activate Learning are committed to employing people with disabilities and will ensure our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible. If you require any reasonable adjustments either at application or interview stage, please contact the talent team directly.
Learning Support Assistants in Guildford employer: Activate-Learning-1
Activate Learning is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive college community in Guildford where you can make a meaningful impact on students' lives. With a strong commitment to professional development, generous employee benefits, and a vibrant work culture, you'll find numerous opportunities for growth while contributing to the success and wellbeing of learners with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values compassion, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Support Assistants in Guildford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Learning Support Assistants on LinkedIn or at local events. They can give you the inside scoop on what it’s really like and might even help you land an interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by practising common questions. Think about how you’d support students with SEND and share specific examples from your experience. We want to see your passion and commitment shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your personality! When you meet the team, be yourself and let your enthusiasm for helping students come across. Remember, they’re looking for someone who fits into their supportive culture.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities and updates right there.
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Assistants in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting students with SEND shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have working with young people or adults, especially those with additional needs. We love seeing how your background aligns with our mission!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your skills and experiences, so we can easily see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get you started on this exciting journey with us.
How to prepare for a job interview at Activate-Learning-1
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Learning Support Assistant. Understand how you can support students with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) and be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used or would use to help learners overcome barriers.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, demonstrate your compassionate approach. Share examples of how you've built trusting relationships with students or colleagues in the past. This will highlight your ability to connect with learners and support their emotional wellbeing.
✨Prepare for Scenarios
Think about potential scenarios you might face as an LSA, such as managing anxiety in students or adapting resources for different learning needs. Be prepared to discuss how you would handle these situations, showcasing your problem-solving skills and flexibility.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask questions that show your interest in the role and the college's approach to inclusion. Inquire about training opportunities or how the team collaborates to support students. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the environment is right for you.
