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- Tasks: Support students with social, emotional, and mental health needs in a dynamic learning environment.
- Company: Join New River College, a diverse and inclusive school dedicated to student welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time only hours, and a supportive team atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Level 2 in English and Maths; experience engaging with children is a plus.
- Other info: Flexible role across multiple sites with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 29784 - 31112 £ per year.
New River College is looking for a SEN Learning Assistant. Grade: Sc5/ Sp 12 – 15 + 1 SEN point. Salary (pro-rata): £29,784.11- £31,112.93 + £1,334.50. Full time (35 hours per week). Term time only. Permanent. Immediate start.
This is a fantastic opportunity for a dedicated learning assistant who is looking for a new challenge and has a flexible approach, to join a committed team at New River College. We are looking to appoint an enthusiastic and dedicated Learning Assistant to work with a committed team of professionals across New River College. This role will contribute to developing the best possible provision and support for our pupils.
You must be flexible and educated to a Level 2 (English and Maths) standard to help improve pupils’ reading, writing and numeracy. We are looking for a learning assistant who relish a challenge, who have the ability to engage children with social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH) and who want to contribute to the lives of children and young people with drive and passion. Many of our pupils are below national age-related literacy and numeracy levels when they arrive. Ability to engage children with SEMH is more important than the phase you are used to supporting.
New River College comprises of three pupil referral units in Islington (primary, secondary and medical), for pupils with social, emotional and mental health challenges (SEMH). We teach children and young people aged five to sixteen years old who have been permanently excluded or participate in our preventative programmes to address their behaviour, and children and young people with complex SEMH or medical needs. New River College is split across a number of sites so a willingness to work across all NRC sites and off site is essential.
Application details
- Application deadline: 23:59 Wednesday 11th February 2026.
- Shortlisted candidates will be notified by Friday 13th February 2026.
- Interviews will be held Friday 27th February 2026.
For background information visit our website www.newrivercollege.co.uk or for an informal discussion about the posts please contact Manal Essa on 020 7504 0534 (option 2) or email [email protected]
New River College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. New River College is a diverse and inclusive school where we can ALL be ourselves. We particularly welcome applications from those from a black or ethnic minority background. A search on publicly available information online will be made for shortlisted candidates. The successful applicant will need to undertake an enhanced DBS disclosure.
SEN Learning Assistant for New River College Secondary employer: Islington Council
Contact Detail:
Islington Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Learning Assistant for New River College Secondary
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research New River College and its values. Understanding their mission will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or other platforms. They can provide insider tips about the role and the school culture, which can give you an edge in your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to SEN support. Think about specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your ability to engage with children with SEMH needs. We want to see your passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the New River College team. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Learning Assistant for New River College Secondary
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a SEN Learning Assistant. We want to see your passion for supporting pupils with SEMH needs, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Flexibility: Since flexibility is key in this role, be sure to mention any experiences where you adapted to different situations or challenges. We love seeing candidates who can think on their feet and adjust their approach as needed.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Don’t forget to include your Level 2 qualifications in English and Maths! This is essential for helping our pupils improve their literacy and numeracy skills, so make it clear how you meet this requirement.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Islington Council
✨Know Your SEN Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs (SEN) and the specific challenges faced by children with social, emotional, and mental health needs (SEMH). Understanding these concepts will help you demonstrate your passion and commitment during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
Since the role requires a flexible approach, be prepared to discuss examples from your past experiences where you've adapted to changing situations or worked across different settings. This will show that you're ready to tackle the diverse challenges at New River College.
✨Engage with Real Scenarios
Think about specific scenarios you might encounter in the role and how you would handle them. Be ready to share your strategies for engaging pupils who may struggle with literacy and numeracy, as well as those with SEMH challenges. This practical insight can set you apart.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could include inquiries about the support systems in place for staff or how the team collaborates across different sites. It shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
