At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with additional needs in a primary school setting.
- Company: Join Five Education, known for its supportive and inclusive approach to education.
- Benefits: Enjoy free training, a DBS refund, and a friendly work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience in education.
- Qualifications: Empathy and patience are key; prior experience is a bonus but not required.
- Other info: Flexible support from your dedicated consultant, Kate, and a welcoming team.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 24000 £ per year.
We are seeking a caring and enthusiastic Learning Support Assistant (LSA) to support children at a mainstream primary school near Bishop Sutton in Somerset. This role involves working with pupils who may have additional needs such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Speech and Language difficulties, or Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. You'll play an important role in helping children access learning, develop their confidence, and feel safe and supported in the classroom. Prior experience working with children is helpful, but not essential - we're just as interested in your attitude, patience, and willingness to learn.
While most of your time will be spent supporting children in the classroom, you may also assist during playtimes and lunchtimes to ensure their safety and engagement. Whether you're an experienced teaching assistant or someone looking to begin a rewarding career in education, we want to hear from you. You'll benefit from training opportunities (such as Makaton, Team Teach and PMLD Awareness) and ongoing support from your dedicated Five Education consultant, Kate.
Main Responsibilities:
- Support students 1:1 or in small groups to make learning fun and accessible
- Promote positive behaviour, emotional regulation and independence
- Work collaboratively with class teachers, SENCo and other staff members
- Encourage social interaction and praise achievements to build confidence
- Ensure the safety and well-being of all students at all times
Essential Criteria:
- Empathetic, patient and passionate about supporting children
- Available to work full-time, Monday to Friday, 8:30-15:30 (term-time only)
- Right to work in the UK - we are unable to offer sponsorship or accept Skilled Worker visas
- Able to provide two recent references (from the last two years)
- Hold a current DBS check registered on the Update Service, or be willing to apply for one
*Please note, if you do not have a Non-Voluntary Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, we will need to help you process a new one at a cost of £62.70. This will be refunded after 20 days of work with us.
What can Five Education offer you?
- Free specialised training in areas such as Team Teach, Makaton, PMLD/SLD Awareness, Autism Awareness, and more
- Free DBS (refunded when you work 20 days)
- Recommending a friend bonus scheme
- Specialist support / mentoring while you are working
If you think this could be a job for you, please get in touch to find out more from Kate. We are always available for an informal chat if you want to find out more about whether this role is suited to you.
Pay: Five Education operates a PAYE payroll; this is the most transparent way to be paid with no hidden fees such as admin fee or employer's NI. Please note pay rate is for illustration and does include holiday pay.
Vetting: Five Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all of the staff we employ to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to undergo checks including reference checks, TRA checks and will need to have a DBS. There will also be an interview.
We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates as they are currently under-represented at this level.
SEND Learning Support Assistant employer: Five Education
Contact Detail:
Five Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Learning Support Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) challenges. Understanding these conditions will help you demonstrate your commitment to supporting these students effectively during your interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage in volunteer work or shadowing opportunities at local schools or community centres. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your skills but also show potential employers your dedication to working with children.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those who work with children with additional needs. Attend workshops or seminars related to special educational needs to build connections and gain insights that could be beneficial during your application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during your interview about the school's approach to supporting children with additional needs. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school environment aligns with your values.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Learning Support Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the SEND Learning Support Assistant position. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Speech and Language difficulties, and Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight any relevant experience you have working with children, even if it's informal. Emphasise your empathy, patience, and passion for supporting children's learning and development. If you have any training or qualifications related to special educational needs, be sure to include those.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and your understanding of the challenges faced by children with additional needs. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that demonstrate your ability to support and engage with children effectively.
Prepare for the Interview: If selected for an interview, think about how you would approach various scenarios involving children with additional needs. Be ready to discuss your strategies for promoting positive behaviour and emotional regulation, as well as how you would collaborate with teachers and other staff members.
How to prepare for a job interview at Five Education
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children and supporting their learning. Share any personal experiences or motivations that led you to pursue this role, as it will demonstrate your genuine interest in making a difference.
✨Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences
Even if you don't have direct experience, think about transferable skills from other roles or life experiences. Discuss your patience, empathy, and ability to work collaboratively, as these are crucial for a Learning Support Assistant.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations involving children with additional needs. Think through potential scenarios and how you would respond, focusing on promoting positive behaviour and emotional regulation.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, be ready to ask questions about the school's approach to supporting children with additional needs. This shows your interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute effectively.