At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with special educational needs and help them thrive academically and socially.
- Company: Join La Retraite, an Outstanding inner-city school with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dedicated wellbeing programme, healthcare scheme, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative SEND team in a school that values every individual.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with neurodiverse learners and a commitment to inclusive practice is essential.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
30 hours per week, Term Time Only + 1 week
Closing date: 12 noon Tuesday, 30th June 2026
Start Date: 1st September 2026
La Retraite is a high-achieving inner-city comprehensive school with 1,200 students, including a thriving Sixth Form. We were judged Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted (Dec 2023) and Outstanding in all nine areas in our 2024 Diocesan Inspection.
We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Learning Support Assistant to join our outstanding SEND team. This is an exciting opportunity to support students with a range of special educational needs and disabilities, including those who are neurodiverse, both within mainstream lessons and our Autism Resource Base.
Working under the direction of the SENDCO and Deputy SENDCOs, you will play a key role in supporting students’ academic, social and emotional development, helping them to access learning, develop independence and achieve their full potential.
The ideal candidate will:
- Have experience of supporting children or young people, particularly those who are neurodiverse, including students with Autism and ADHD.
- Have a strong understanding of inclusive practice and a commitment to ensuring that all students can succeed.
- Be confident supporting students both in the classroom and through targeted interventions.
- Be able to establish positive and productive relationships with students, acting as a role model and maintaining high expectations.
- Demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills when working with students, staff, parents and external agencies.
- Be proactive, adaptable and able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Have a positive attitude, a calm approach and the ability to support students’ personal development and independence.
- Hold a Level 2 qualification (or equivalent) or be willing to undertake relevant training and professional development.
- Embrace and actively support our Catholic ethos.
- Experience of working within a secondary school environment and delivering structured interventions would be desirable.
At La Retraite, our vibrant and inclusive community is built on a commitment to excellence, challenge and care. Our Catholic ethos welcomes staff and students of all faiths and none, fostering a culture where every individual is valued.
If you are excited to contribute to our outstanding team, we would love to hear from you!
Rewarding you:
- Inner London weighting
- Dedicated wellbeing programme
- Healthcare scheme
- Two-week October half-term holiday
- Cycle-to-Work scheme
Investing in you:
- Endless opportunities for CPD
- SEND-specific professional development and specialist training
- Opportunities to develop expertise in supporting neurodiverse learners
- Supportive induction programme for new staff
- Career progression opportunities, including HLTA pathways
- Collaborative and highly supportive SEND team
La Retraite R.C. Girls’ School is committed to Safer Recruitment and is an Equal Opportunities Employer. The successful candidate will be subject to an Online Search, Social Media check, and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring (DBS) check. Please note, we reserve the right to close this advertisement early if an appointment is made before the closing date.
Learning Support Assistant (LSA) employer: La Retraite
La Retraite R.C. Girls’ School is an outstanding employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work environment that prioritises the wellbeing and professional development of its staff. With a strong commitment to excellence and a supportive SEND team, employees benefit from extensive training opportunities, a dedicated wellbeing programme, and a culture that values every individual. Located in inner London, the school provides a rewarding experience for those passionate about supporting neurodiverse learners and contributing to a thriving educational community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Support Assistant (LSA)
✨Dive into Digital Learning Communities
Join online forums and communities focused on digital education, like EdTech Meetups or LinkedIn groups. Engage actively—share ideas and insights, and you'll not only learn a ton but also connect with potential employers and thought leaders in the industry.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Skills
Create content that demonstrates your understanding of digital learning—think blogs, videos, or even free online workshops. This could catch the eye of companies like La Retraite looking for innovative thinkers. Plus, it’s a great way to practice your presentation skills!
✨Utilise University Career Services
If you're still in education or have access to an alumni network, make the most of your university's career services. They often have exclusive job listings and workshops tailored to students wanting to break into full-time roles in education technology.
✨Apply Directly Via Company Websites
When you come across roles like Learning Support Assistant (LSA) at La Retraite, make sure to apply directly through their website. It not only shows you're serious but sometimes you'll find positions listed there that may not be on job boards yet. Keep an eye on those!
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Assistant (LSA)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at La Retraite, make sure to sprinkle your application with examples of your enthusiasm for teaching and learning technologies. Share specific experiences where you've used, designed, or implemented digital learning solutions, as this shows us that you truly get the field.
Highlight Relevant Education and Certification:In the digital learning space, having a strong educational background can set you apart. Don't shy away from showcasing your degrees, certifications, or relevant courses related to e-learning, instructional design, or educational technology. We love seeing candidates who have actively invested in their learning journey!
Tailor Your CV to the Role:Your CV is your first impression, so let's make it count! Focus on your skills directly related to digital learning, such as course development, learning management systems, and data analysis. Be sure to show measurable results from your past roles to demonstrate your impact and effectiveness.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your qualifications, but your vision for the future of digital education. Discuss how your experiences align with the mission of La Retraite and highlight any innovative ideas you might have for enhancing learning experiences. This is your chance to connect with us on a deeper level!
How to prepare for a job interview at La Retraite
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that La Retraite might use. Understanding these will give you an edge and show you’re ready to jump in from day one!
✨Showcase Your Creativity in Lesson Design
Prepare a portfolio of your past projects if you have them, or create sample lesson plans or digital content demos. Being able to discuss your creative approach to engaging students can really set you apart in a full-time role at La Retraite.
✨Brush Up on Educational Trends
Stay in the loop with the latest trends in digital education, like gamification or personalised learning experiences. This will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview and demonstrate your passion for the field.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Expect to be asked about your experience working collaboratively with educators or other stakeholders. Consider discussing how you've contributed to a team effort in creating engaging educational content or improving student outcomes.
