At a Glance
- Tasks: Support autistic students in their learning and development across Key Stages 3 to 5.
- Company: Join an outstanding school dedicated to nurturing young minds.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, pension scheme, sickness entitlement, and free meals.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career growth and training.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: GCSE English and Maths, plus experience with young people.
The predicted salary is between 25185 - 25989 £ per year.
Swalcliffe Park School is seeking a Learning Support Assistant to join our dedicated team supporting autistic students across Key Stages 3 to 5. This rewarding role involves classroom support, SEN support, mentoring, safeguarding and promoting student development in education and community settings.
We welcome applications from those who have experience in SEN Teaching Assistant, Learning Mentor, Classroom Support Assistant, Pastoral Support Worker, Teaching Assistant, LSA or Classroom Support Worker roles.
Salary: £25,185 – £25,989 per annum (Actual)
Benefits: Generous holiday (13 weeks’ paid holiday to be taken in school holidays), NEST Pension Scheme, sickness entitlement (2 weeks full pay, 2 weeks half pay), and a free lunchtime meal.
Location: Swalcliffe, Nr Banbury, Oxfordshire (OX15)
Job Type: Full‑time, term‑time, permanent
Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week – 39 weeks term time
Job Overview: We have a fantastic new job opportunity for a Learning Support Assistant to join a specialist residential education setting rated “Outstanding” by OFSTED for Education & Care. Swalcliffe Park School provides specialist residential education and care for around 70 secondary‑aged boys (10‑19 yrs) who are all on the Autism Spectrum. We offer excellent working conditions in a beautiful environment, including paid school holidays, opportunities for career development and staff training.
As a Learning Support Assistant you will support students across KS3 to KS5 with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), helping them develop communication, independence and self‑management skills both in the classroom and within the community. You will work closely with teachers, therapists and pastoral teams, contributing to high‑quality SEN support, safeguarding and student wellbeing in a collaborative educational environment.
Duties:
- Supporting students: work with groups and individual students in classroom and community learning environments.
- Providing SEN support: assist students with ASC to access education and social opportunities.
- Supporting learning activities: help students with coursework, homework, revision and exam preparation.
- Monitoring progress: observe behaviour and learning styles to support individual learning targets and EHCP outcomes.
- Working collaboratively: liaise with teachers, therapists, pastoral teams and families to support student development.
- Maintaining records: accurately update student information using school systems and provision maps.
- Promoting safeguarding: follow safeguarding, child protection and health & safety procedures at all times.
- Supporting community access: transport and accompany students to educational placements, college activities and work experience opportunities.
- Contributing to school life: support whole‑school activities, student wellbeing initiatives and cover arrangements when required.
Candidate Requirements:
Essential:
- GCSE English Language and Mathematics at Grade 4/C or above (or equivalent).
- Experience of working with young people in an educational or youth/community setting.
- Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills with a student‑centred approach.
- Awareness of safeguarding, confidentiality and professional boundaries.
- IT proficiency, including Word, Excel and email.
- Full UK driving licence, with eligibility and willingness to drive school vehicles (subject to insurance).
Desirable:
- Experience supporting autistic young people or those with social communication needs.
- Knowledge of EHCPs and the SEND Code of Practice.
- Level 2 or Level 3 qualification in Supporting Teaching and Learning or willingness to undertake training.
- Experience working in a multidisciplinary environment (e.g., with speech & language therapists, occupational therapists or psychologists).
- Ability to contribute to assessment and reporting processes.
- Aware of health and safety in educational settings.
This school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be expected to undertake an enhanced disclosure. We are an equal opportunities employer.
Learning Support Assistant / LSA (AWDO-P14745) in Swalcliffe) employer: AWD Online
Swalcliffe Park School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment dedicated to the development of autistic students. With generous benefits including 13 weeks of paid holiday, a NEST Pension Scheme, and opportunities for professional growth through training, staff members are empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people. Located in the picturesque setting of Swalcliffe, Oxfordshire, our school is rated 'Outstanding' by OFSTED, ensuring a fulfilling and rewarding career for those passionate about education and student wellbeing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Support Assistant / LSA (AWDO-P14745) in Swalcliffe)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education or SEN support. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its approach to supporting autistic students. Show us that you understand their needs and how you can contribute to their development.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to safeguarding and student support. We want to see your passion for helping students thrive!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance of landing the role. Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the job description!
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Assistant / LSA (AWDO-P14745) in Swalcliffe)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with SEN and working with autistic students. We want to see how your background fits the role, so don’t hold back on sharing relevant examples!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting students shine through! We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in the lives of young people, so share why this role matters to you.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts well. We appreciate a well-organised application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can process your application smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at AWD Online
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of autistic students and the role of a Learning Support Assistant. Brush up on your knowledge of EHCPs and the SEND Code of Practice, as these will likely come up during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience working with young people, especially in educational or community settings. Think of specific examples where you made a positive impact, particularly with students who have special educational needs.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
This role involves working closely with teachers, therapists, and families. Be ready to talk about how you’ve collaborated in the past and how you can contribute to a multidisciplinary team to support student development.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the school’s approach to supporting autistic students and the professional development opportunities available. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
