Learning Support Assistant in Nottingham

Inspire College is recruiting term‑time Learning Support Assistants for its bases in Sutton-in-Ashfield, Mansfield, Newark and Hucknall for the 2026‑27 academic year. Inspire College works with 16 to 24 year‑olds on full‑time Study Programmes. Some of these learners have mild to moderate learning difficulties and/or social, emotional and mental health issues. Some can also present with challenging behaviour. While with us, learners work on their employability and personal and social development. Some complete vocational qualifications in Construction, Catering and Health and Social Care and all do Maths and English and have the opportunity to gain work experience. They also benefit from the excellent pastoral care provided by our staff and take part in enrichment activities, which can happen outside of the classroom.

The ideal candidates should have experience of developing constructive working relationships with other professionals. Additionally, they will have a good understanding of the issues facing young people in today’s society and have a positive, enthusiastic attitude in helping them overcome their barriers to education. A–C/4+ GCSE in English and Maths are required, as is an ability to recognise and respond to the needs of young people, providing the necessary encouragement and motivation needed to help them succeed.

The hours are 8.30 – 4.00, 3 days a week. Sutton and Newark are Mon – Wed; Hucknall is Tues‑Thur; Mansfield is Wed‑Fri. Lunches are taken with and while supporting the young people. Additional days may also be available, for example supporting young people on work placement, or covering at other bases. This is an excellent opportunity to pursue a career in education with an expanding local organisation which delivers vital opportunities to young people across the county. Training and support will be given to help the successful candidates undertake the role.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we expect all staff to share this commitment and undergo appropriate checks. As such, this post will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check. Inspire is committed to applying its Equality Policy at all stages of recruitment and selection. The selection process will be carried out without regard to disability, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, age, pregnancy and maternity or trade union membership.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work at the direction of the tutor to enable learners to gain and develop a variety of skills within a classroom and online environment.
• Provide group and individual support, both face‑to‑face and online, on accredited and non‑accredited programmes including maths and/or English.
• Provide learners with appropriate information, advice, guidance, counselling and support to enable them to overcome barriers to education and employment.
• Complete administrative tasks associated with course administration as reasonably delegated by the tutor.
• Undertake continuous professional development as determined by the organisation.
• Ensure that all safeguarding policies and procedures are adhered to and organisational guidelines are followed, including the Prevent Strategy.

Education and Knowledge Required for the role:

• A–C GCSE (4 or above) grades (or equivalent) in English and Maths are required.
• Understanding of safeguarding policies and procedures, including the Prevent Strategy (training provided).
• Awareness of Health and Safety issues and legislation (training provided).
• Understanding of Equal Opportunities policies and procedures (training provided).

Skills and Experience:

• Ability to work on own initiative, organising and prioritising your own work.
• Ability to effectively review, monitor and offer guidance and support to young people and adults.
• Experience of working with vulnerable young people aged 16–24 and/or adults with learning difficulties and disabilities (desirable).
• Experience of supporting the achievement of accredited qualifications.
• Work effectively within a team to plan programme delivery and solve day‑to‑day problems.
• Be able to communicate effectively with a wide range of people both face‑to‑face and online.

To provide young people and/or adults with appropriate classroom support, leading to the achievement of learning goals and appropriate accredited/non‑accredited qualifications, that support progression to Further Education or employment.

No direct responsibility of staff. Demonstrates effective customer service skills – in person, online or on the phone - identifies and satisfies customer needs, adjusting their style with a friendly and professional approach as appropriate for the customer. Responds positively to customer concerns, acts to resolve or reassure customers as needed, agrees solutions with the customer or hands over to an appropriate colleague.

For more information, please contact Simon Cook at simon.cook@inspireculture.org.uk or call 0115 804 4232.