At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with autism in a nurturing school environment, helping them thrive academically and personally.
- Company: Join Inspire EHC, a dedicated partner in special education.
- Benefits: Enjoy term-time hours, competitive pay, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with strong focus on staff wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people with additional needs.
- Qualifications: Passion for supporting students; experience with autism is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 22607 - 22607 £ per year.
Learning Support Assistant (SEN / Autism Support)
Location: Colchester, Essex
Salary: £22,607 per annum (term-time only, plus training days)
Contract: Permanent, Full-time (38.5 hours per week Monday to Friday), 39 weeks per annum (term time only) plus 3 days per annum during school holidays
Start Date: ASAP or September 2026
About the Role
Inspire EHC is proud to be working in partnership with a specialist SEN school in Colchester, Essex to recruit a dedicated Learning Support Assistant. This is an exciting opportunity to join a highly supportive setting that provides education for children and young people with autism and learning difficulties. The school offers a structured and nurturing environment with small class sizes, allowing staff to focus on delivering meaningful outcomes for learners and supporting their development both academically and personally.
As a Learning Support Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting learners in both individual and group settings, helping to build confidence, independence and key life skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide direct support to learners in class and during activities
- Support students on a 1:1 basis and in small groups
- Work closely with teachers to deliver engaging and personalised lessons
- Assist with Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and care plans
- Support communication, behaviour and emotional regulation
- Help prepare for lessons, school trips and educational visits
- Supervise learners during break times and lunchtime
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of each learner’s development and needs
Requirements
- Experience working with children or young people with autism or learning disabilities (desirable)
- A genuine passion for supporting students with additional needs
- GCSE Maths and English (Grade C / 4 or above) or equivalent
- NVQ Level 3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning (desirable, not essential)
- A patient, resilient and proactive approach
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Driving licence (desirable)
- Right to work in the UK (no sponsorship available)
What Inspire EHC Offers
- Dedicated SEN specialist consultant support
- Competitive pay and long-term career opportunities
- Access to CPD and training within SEN and autism support
- Opportunities for progression within specialist education settings
- A trusted partner to schools across the UK
Benefits of the Role
- Term-time only working pattern for strong work/life balance
- Comprehensive training and ongoing professional development
- Staff wellbeing and mental health support
- Access to discounts and additional staff benefits
- A supportive leadership team and collaborative working environment
Safeguarding Statement
Inspire EHC and our partner school are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.
Autism Support Learning Assistant (SEN) – Term-Time Role in Essex employer: Inspire EHC Ltd
Inspire EHC is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and supportive environment for Learning Support Assistants in Colchester, Essex. With a focus on professional development and a commitment to staff wellbeing, employees benefit from comprehensive training, a strong work/life balance through term-time only hours, and opportunities for career progression within the specialist education sector. Join a dedicated team that values collaboration and makes a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people with autism and learning difficulties.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Autism Support Learning Assistant (SEN) – Term-Time Role in Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work with SEN or autism support. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEN roles. Think about how you can showcase your passion and experience in supporting learners with additional needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to highlight your teamwork skills! In a role like this, collaboration with teachers and other staff is key, so be ready to share examples of how you've worked well in a team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing the job! We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of students with autism.
We think you need these skills to ace Autism Support Learning Assistant (SEN) – Term-Time Role in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with children or young people with autism or learning disabilities. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your passion for supporting students with additional needs!
Showcase Your Skills:In your written application, emphasise your communication and teamwork skills. We’re looking for someone who can work closely with teachers and support learners effectively, so let us know how you’ve done this in the past!
Be Genuine:We love authenticity! Share your personal motivations for wanting to work as a Learning Support Assistant. A genuine passion for helping students build confidence and independence will definitely catch our eye.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Inspire EHC Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Learning Support Assistant, especially in a SEN environment. Familiarise yourself with autism and learning difficulties, and think about how your experiences align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your genuine passion for supporting students with additional needs shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to helping learners build confidence and independence.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, like supporting a student during a challenging moment. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully navigated similar challenges, and be ready to discuss them.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the school’s approach to SEN support or how they measure success for their learners. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
