At a Glance
- Tasks: Support learners with complex needs in a caring and inclusive environment.
- Company: Join Activate Learning, a supportive college community dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy term-time only work, LGPS pension, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Flexible hours, training opportunities, and a chance to grow your career.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring your compassion and willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Activate Learning is recruiting dedicated, enthusiastic, compassionate and motivated Learning Support & Care Assistants (LSCAs) to support learners with complex learning and care needs at The Woodlands Centre, a specialist SEND facility featuring sensory and therapy rooms, classrooms, and gardens. Our team supports learners who face barriers to education, including young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Our programme is aimed at young people with high sensory needs and a range of Moderate to Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD).
Key Responsibilities
- Provide one-to-one or small group support to learners across a variety of activities, including personal care and learning tasks.
- Support learners in developing essential life skills (e.g. independent living, meal preparation, wellbeing, and functional skills).
- Assist learners in accessing the curriculum and wider college activities in a safe and inclusive way.
- Promote learners' independence, dignity, confidence and self‑esteem at all times.
- Work alongside tutors, therapists, and other support staff to deliver person‑centred education.
- Support learners with mobility, medical needs, and personal care, where required.
- Help implement individual targets linked to EHCP outcomes and progress tracking systems.
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. Working hours between 08:30 and 17:00, with a minimum of 18 hours per week.
What do you need to be a successful Learning Support and Care Assistant at Activate Learning?
- No previous experience is required – your values, attitude and willingness to learn are what matter most.
- If you have a natural desire to help others, show compassion, and believe everyone deserves the chance to thrive, we want to hear from you!
- Minimum GCSE English and Maths grade C/level 4 or above.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Empathy, patience, and adaptability.
- A genuine passion for helping students thrive.
- Previous experience in SEN/Care would be an advantage.
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.
Applications are encouraged from all candidates who meet or exceed minimum criteria, regardless of age, disability, gender, orientation, race, religion, or ethnicity. Activate Learning is 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. Activate Learning is committed to safeguarding and expects all staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to undergo a DBS check at the appropriate level.
Learning Support & Care Assistants - Woodlands Centre employer: Activate-Learning-1
Activate Learning is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive college community where dedicated Learning Support & Care Assistants can thrive. With a focus on professional development, including access to training and apprenticeship pathways, employees are empowered to grow their careers while making a meaningful impact on the lives of students with special educational needs. Located at The Woodlands Centre in Worplesdon, staff enjoy term-time only positions, a generous LGPS pension scheme, and the opportunity to work in a nurturing environment that values compassion and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Support & Care Assistants - Woodlands Centre
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education and care sectors, especially those who work with SEND. You never know who might have a lead on a job or can give you insider tips on what employers are looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to support roles. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the values of compassion and dedication that Activate Learning is after. We want to see your passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your soft skills! In your conversations and interviews, highlight your empathy, patience, and adaptability. These qualities are crucial for a Learning Support & Care Assistant, so let them know how you embody these traits.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our supportive community at The Woodlands Centre.
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support & Care Assistants - Woodlands Centre
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for helping others shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in the lives of learners with complex needs.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your values and experiences align with our mission at The Woodlands Centre. We love seeing candidates who understand our commitment to inclusivity and support.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure to communicate your skills and experiences effectively without unnecessary fluff.
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 ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Activate-Learning-1
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Learning Support & Care Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of learners with SEND and think about how your values align with the role. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine passion for helping students thrive.
✨Showcase Your Compassion
During the interview, be prepared to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy and patience in past experiences, even if they’re not directly related to care. Whether it’s volunteering or simply helping a friend, these stories can highlight your natural desire to support others, which is crucial for this role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask your interviewers about the Woodlands Centre and its approach to supporting learners. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in the position and eager to contribute to the team. Questions about training opportunities or how success is measured can also demonstrate your commitment to professional development.
✨Emphasise Teamwork Skills
Since the role involves working alongside tutors, therapists, and other staff, be ready to discuss your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you’ve collaborated effectively in the past, highlighting your adaptability and communication skills. This will reassure the interviewers that you can work well in a supportive environment.
