SEND Learning Support Assistant – Transform Student Success in Oxford

SEND Learning Support Assistant – Transform Student Success in Oxford

Oxford Full-Time 20000 - 25000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support students with SEND to achieve independence and success in their education.
  • Company: Join a vibrant college community dedicated to inclusive learning.
  • Benefits: Enjoy term-time only work, competitive salary, and great employee perks.
  • Other info: Ongoing training and professional development opportunities available.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your career in education.
  • Qualifications: GCSE English and Maths grade C/level 4 or above; experience with SEND is a plus.

The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ 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.

SEND Learning Support Assistant – Transform Student Success in Oxford employer: Activate-Learning-1

Activate Learning is an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and inclusive college community, dedicated to empowering students with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities. With a strong focus on professional development, employees benefit from ongoing training opportunities, competitive salaries, and generous annual leave, all within a vibrant environment that values each individual's contribution to student success and wellbeing.

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Contact Details:

Activate-Learning-1 Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land SEND Learning Support Assistant – Transform Student Success in Oxford

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Learning Support Assistants and ask about their experiences. You never know who might have insider info on job openings or tips for the interview process.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for your interview by researching the college's values and mission. Show us that you’re not just passionate about education, but that you align with our commitment to inclusivity and support for students with SEND.

Tip Number 3

Practice common interview questions related to supporting students with additional needs. Think about real-life examples where you've demonstrated patience, empathy, and teamwork – these are key traits we look for!

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, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Activate Learning.

We think you need these skills to ace SEND Learning Support Assistant – Transform Student Success in Oxford

Experience working with SEND
GCSE English and Maths grade C/level 4 or above
Patient and empathetic approach
Strong communication skills
Interpersonal skills
Ability to build trusting relationships
Flexible and proactive attitude

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 SEND. Even if it’s not extensive, we love to see how your skills can contribute to our inclusive environment.

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 receive your details and get you on the path to joining our amazing team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Activate-Learning-1

Know Your SEND Stuff

Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Brush up on relevant strategies and approaches that can help these students thrive in both academic and practical settings.

Show Your Empathy

During the interview, demonstrate your compassionate side. Share examples from your past experiences where you’ve supported individuals facing challenges, highlighting your patience and understanding.

Communicate Clearly

Strong communication skills are key for a Learning Support Assistant. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, and be ready to discuss how you would build trusting relationships with students and collaborate with tutors.

Be Ready to Adapt

Flexibility is crucial in this role. Prepare to discuss how you would adapt resources and teaching methods to meet individual student needs. Think of specific scenarios where you’ve had to adjust your approach to support someone effectively.