At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with autism in a dynamic learning environment.
- Company: Bridgwater College Academy, committed to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, employee discounts, pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to diversity and student welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with children with ASC and a passion for inclusive education.
The predicted salary is between 20533 - 20533 £ per year.
Part time - 33.75 hours per week, 39 weeks per year (term time plus 2 INSET days and some Twilight sessions). Working hours: 8:05am to 3:20pm (with 30 minute unpaid lunch break) Monday to Friday.
Salary: Band 5, Points 7-9. Actual starting salary: £20,533.38 per annum. Anticipated start date: September 2026.
Bridgwater College Academy is seeking to appoint a skilled and enthusiastic Learning Support Assistant to join our ASC Polden Centre Team, working predominantly within Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone passionate about supporting young people with autism and committed to inclusive education.
The successful candidate will work within the specialist ASC base as well as supporting students in mainstream classes. You will help individual students and small groups to engage positively with learning, promote constructive behaviour, and will be supported to deliver tailored SEND interventions within our specialist provision.
To be considered for this role, you should:
- Have proven experience working with children with ASC, language and communication needs, or other SEND.
- Have a genuine desire to understand and support the needs of students with autism.
- Demonstrate a calm, positive approach and be a clear, confident communicator.
- Be able to develop and maintain trusting, professional relationships with students and staff.
This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a dedicated and inclusive team within our ASC base, making a meaningful difference to the educational experience of our students.
What We Offer:
- Employee reward scheme including high-street discounts and a staff wellbeing centre.
- Generous local government pension scheme.
- On site parking.
Applications will be considered as they are received, and early submission is strongly encouraged. We reserve the right to appoint before the closing date should a suitable candidate be identified.
Closing Date for applications: Sunday 7th June 2026 at 11:59pm.
We believe in hiring for potential and this means that we value individuals for the knowledge, skills and experience that they have developed in every aspect of their lives. If you don’t feel that you meet all of the criteria listed in the person specification, we would still encourage you to apply.
We care about our staff and provide a number of benefits in addition to salary including a positive and supportive working environment, employer pension contribution of at least 19%, generous annual leave entitlement for all-year round staff, on-site gyms, free parking, access to a retail discounts platform and Employee Assistance Programme. Helping you achieve a good work life balance is important to us. Lots of our colleagues work flexibly including part time hours and/or job shares and we are happy to discuss these opportunities with you.
We truly believe that diversity of thought, culture, background and perspective secure the best outcomes for our students. We strive to build teams that represent our local communities and welcome applications from individuals who identify as members of an under-represented group and in particular individuals who identify as BAME, disabled or LGBT. We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share its commitment. Our mission is that all children achieve. This post is exempt from Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974). A comprehensive screening process will be undertaken on all applicants, which will include a check with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Locations
Learning Support Assistant - Part Time in Bridgwater, Somerset employer: Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust
Bridgwater College Academy is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its staff. With a supportive work culture, generous benefits including a local government pension scheme and employee reward initiatives, we foster an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the lives of young people with autism while enjoying flexible working arrangements and a strong commitment to work-life balance.
Contact Details:
Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Support Assistant - Part Time in Bridgwater, Somerset
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values! Before your interview, check out Bridgwater College Academy's website and social media. Understanding their mission and culture will help you connect your passion for supporting students with autism to their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a Learning Support Assistant, being a clear and confident communicator is key. Try role-playing common scenarios with a friend or family member to boost your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm! During the interview, let your passion for inclusive education shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to supporting young people with autism and how you can make a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on our site. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you're serious about joining our dedicated team.
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Assistant - Part Time in Bridgwater, Somerset
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting young people with autism shine through. We want to see that genuine desire to make a difference in their educational experience!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have working with children with ASC or other SEND needs. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on those details!
Be Clear and Confident:Your written application should reflect a calm and positive approach. Use clear language and confident communication to show us that you can build trusting relationships with students and staff alike.
Apply Early!:We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible. We review applications as they come in, so getting yours in early could give you an edge. Head over to our website to apply!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Learning Support Assistant and the specific needs of students with autism. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description, such as supporting students in mainstream classes and delivering tailored SEND interventions.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, express your genuine desire to support young people with autism. Share any relevant experiences you've had, whether through work or personal life, that demonstrate your commitment to inclusive education and understanding of the challenges faced by these students.
✨Communicate Clearly
As a Learning Support Assistant, clear communication is key. Practice articulating your thoughts and experiences confidently. Use examples from your past to illustrate how you've built trusting relationships with students and staff, and how you've managed behaviour positively.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! This shows your interest in the role and the school. You might want to inquire about the training opportunities available for staff or how the team collaborates to support students with diverse needs.
