At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with Special Educational Needs to achieve their learning goals.
- 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 - 26000 £ per year.
Activate Learning is recruiting dedicated, enthusiastic, compassionate, and motivated Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) to join our team at The Leys 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 support young people aged 16-19 enrolled onto programmes from Entry Level to Level 3, including T Levels. You will provide both in-class and one-to-one support, helping students overcome barriers to learning and achieve their full potential in both practical and academic environments. You will work primarily in Construction & Engineering (ConEng), or ICT & Esports (Createch), with additional time supporting students through Activate 360.
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
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 5pm.
What You Need to Be a Successful Learning Support Assistant
- 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
- Willingness to undertake training in personal care and manual handling if required
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.
Together, we will bring out the best version of yourself. 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. Applications are encouraged from all candidates who meet or exceed the 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.
Learning Support Assistants in Oxford employer: Activate-Learning-1
Activate Learning is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive college community in Blackbird Leys 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 students with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values compassion, collaboration, and continuous learning.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Support Assistants in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Learning Support Assistants on LinkedIn or through local education groups. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing a role at Activate Learning.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to supporting students with SEND. Think about specific examples from your past experiences that showcase your patience, empathy, and ability to adapt to different learning needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for education! During interviews, express why you want to support students with additional needs and how you can contribute to their success. Your enthusiasm can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities and updates about working with us at Activate Learning.
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Assistants in Oxford
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 with additional needs. Even if it’s not extensive, we love to see how you've engaged with similar roles or environments.
Be Yourself:Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your application. We’re looking for compassionate and motivated individuals, so show us who you are and why you’d be a great fit for our team!
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Activate-Learning-1
✨Know Your Role
Before the interview, make sure you understand the responsibilities of a Learning Support Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with SEND and think about how your skills can help them achieve their goals.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, demonstrate your compassionate approach. Share examples from your past experiences where you've supported individuals, especially those with additional needs. This will show that you genuinely care about making a difference.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, such as supporting a student struggling with a task. Think through potential scenarios and prepare your responses to highlight your problem-solving skills and adaptability.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few questions ready to ask the interviewers. Inquire about the support systems in place for LSAs or how they measure student success. This shows your interest in the role and commitment to the students' wellbeing.
