At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people with autism in a dynamic learning environment.
- Company: Bridgwater College Academy, committed to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, discounts, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with children with autism and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 20533 - 20533 £ per year.
Actual salary: £20,533.38 per annum
Contractual hours: 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 (30 minute unpaid lunch break) Monday to Friday
Salary band: Band 5, Points 7-9
Anticipated start date: September 2026
Location: Bridgwater College Academy, Bridgwater
Basis: Part Time – Part Year
Job overview:
Learning Support Assistant (Polden Centre) 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.
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.
Qualifications:
- 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
What We Offer:
- Employee reward scheme including high‑street discounts and a staff wellbeing centre
- Generous local government pension scheme
- On‑site parking
Closing Date:
Closing date for applications: Sunday 7th June 2026 at 11:59pm.
EEO statement:
We believe in hiring for potential and value the knowledge, skills and experience that individuals bring from all walks of life. We encourage applications from all candidates, regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, and marriage and civil partnerships. Applications from members of under-represented groups, including BAME, disabled, and LGBT, are particularly welcome. We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff.
Benefits and Working Conditions:
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 an Employee Assistance Programme. We support a good work‑life balance and offer flexible working arrangements for part‑time hours and/or job shares.
Safeguarding and Recruitment:
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. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. A comprehensive screening process will be undertaken on all applicants, including a check with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Autism-focused Learning Support Assistant (Term-Time) in Bridgwater employer: Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust
Bridgwater College Academy is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of students with autism. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, generous pension contributions, and opportunities for professional growth, staff can enjoy a fulfilling career while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Located in Bridgwater, the academy provides access to on-site facilities and a vibrant community, making it an ideal place for dedicated Learning Support Assistants to thrive.
Contact Details:
Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Autism-focused Learning Support Assistant (Term-Time) in Bridgwater
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those who work with autism support. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get an interview, share your experiences and genuine interest in supporting students with autism. Let them see how committed you are to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the unexpected! Be ready for scenario-based questions during interviews. Think about how you'd handle specific situations with students and be ready to share your strategies.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities tailored for passionate individuals like us.
We think you need these skills to ace Autism-focused Learning Support Assistant (Term-Time) in Bridgwater
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When 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 lives!
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 what we’re looking for!
Be Clear and Confident:Use clear language and confident statements in your application. We appreciate applicants who can communicate effectively, as this is key in building relationships with students and staff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly and helps us keep track of all the amazing candidates like you.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand autism and the specific needs of students with ASC. Brush up on relevant strategies and interventions that can help support their learning. This will show your genuine passion for the role and your commitment to inclusive education.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience working with children with autism or other SEND. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully supported students in the past. This will help demonstrate your ability to build trusting relationships and promote positive behaviour.
✨Communicate Clearly
During the interview, focus on being a clear and confident communicator. Practice explaining your thoughts and ideas succinctly. Remember, the role requires you to communicate effectively with both students and staff, so showcasing this skill is crucial.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the role and the Polden Centre team. This shows your interest in the position and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you. Consider asking about the types of interventions used or how the team collaborates to support students.
