At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with profound needs in a nurturing special needs school.
- Company: Join a dedicated team in a supportive environment focused on special education.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, full training, and weekly payments.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience with complex needs is preferred but not essential; training provided.
- Other info: Long-term roles available with opportunities for permanent positions.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Are you passionate about supporting children with profound and complex needs? A rewarding opportunity has arisen for an experienced and compassionate Learning Support Assistant to join a highly supportive special needs school in the Stourbridge area, working with pupils with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD) and complex health or care needs. This is a long-term, full-time position ideal for someone looking to make a real difference in a nurturing, specialist education setting. About the Role: As a Learning Support Assistant, you will: * Work closely with class teachers and therapists to support students with a range of complex physical, medical, and learning needs * Provide one-to-one and small group support tailored to individual education and care plans * Assist with personal care routines, including toileting, feeding, and manual handling (full training provided if needed) * Use communication tools such as PECS, Makaton, or sensory-based strategies * Create a calm, safe, and stimulating environment where every child can thrive Ideal Candidate Will Have: * Experience working in a special school, care, or health setting with children or young people with complex needs (preferred but not essential) * Confidence in delivering personal care and assisting with physical or medical needs (or a willingness to be trained) * A caring, resilient, and flexible approach to working with vulnerable learners * A valid Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to apply for one * Relevant qualifications such as a Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant or Health & Social Care (desirable but not essential) We Offer: * A highly rewarding role where you make a genuine impact on learners\’ lives * Competitive daily rates and weekly pay through our agency * Full support and training including safeguarding, manual handling, and PMLD-specific CPD * A dedicated consultant who understands SEN and works closely with schools in the Stourbridge area * Opportunities for long-term placements and permanent positions
LSA employer: Colmore Education Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Colmore Education Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land LSA
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD). Understanding their unique challenges and communication methods, such as PECS or Makaton, will show your commitment and readiness to support them effectively.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the special needs education sector. Attend local workshops or seminars related to special education needs, as this can help you gain insights and potentially connect with people who can refer you to opportunities at our school.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your passion for working with vulnerable learners by volunteering or gaining experience in similar settings. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your skills but also provide you with real-life examples to discuss during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to personal care routines and how you would create a safe and stimulating environment for the children. Being able to articulate your strategies and mindset will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace LSA
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the specific responsibilities and requirements of a Learning Support Assistant. Tailor your application to highlight your passion for supporting children with profound and complex needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have experience working in special schools or with children with complex needs, make sure to emphasise this in your CV and cover letter. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and how they relate to the role.
Showcase Your Skills: Mention any relevant qualifications or training you have, such as Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant or Health & Social Care. If you are willing to undergo training for personal care routines, express this willingness clearly in your application.
Personalise Your Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that reflects your understanding of the role and your commitment to making a difference in the lives of vulnerable learners. Use a warm and compassionate tone to convey your suitability for the position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Colmore Education Recruitment Ltd
✨Show Your Passion
Make sure to express your genuine passion for supporting children with complex needs. Share any personal experiences or motivations that led you to pursue this role, as it will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Communication Tools
Since the role involves using communication tools like PECS and Makaton, it’s beneficial to familiarise yourself with these methods before the interview. Mentioning your understanding or willingness to learn about these tools can set you apart.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Resilience
Be prepared to discuss scenarios where you had to adapt to changing situations or handle challenging behaviours. Highlighting your flexibility and resilience will show that you are equipped to support vulnerable learners effectively.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the school’s approach to supporting students with PMLD and complex needs. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your values and working style.