Hourly Paid Learning Support Assistant

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Learning Support Assistant to join our Additional Learning Support team at Middlesbrough College. Reporting to an SEN Team Leader, you will provide high-quality learning support to ensure that students with learning difficulties, disabilities and additional needs are fully supported to engage, progress and achieve during their time at College. You will work closely with teaching staff and support teams to deliver inclusive classroom support, personalised interventions, and practical assistance.

Middlesbrough College’s High Needs provision has been rated Outstanding by Ofsted, and this role is key to maintaining and building on that success by ensuring every learner thrives and reaches their individual goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide high quality learning support to ensure all aspects of the students’ requirements for support are met whilst they are in college.
• Work effectively with teaching staff, cross college colleagues and outside agencies to ensure provision is of the highest standard and that practices implemented are in line with college policies and procedures.
• Assist students to develop independent learning and study skills, including managing their behaviour, time, and work.
• Liaise with teaching staff, other educational organisations, and cross college colleagues to contribute to a successful transition, initial target setting and specific strategies for individual learners.

Qualifications

• An appropriate Level 2 qualification (or equivalent) in supporting students with learning difficulties/care, or a commitment to achieving this within an agreed timescale.
• Grade 4/C or above in Maths and English (or equivalent).
• A willingness to undertake any mandatory training relevant to the role.
• A vocational qualification at Level 2 – Desirable.
• A First Aid qualification – Desirable.

Experience

• Knowledge or experience of working with students who have learning difficulties and disabilities.
• Vocational experience in a relevant subject area – Desirable.

Knowledge & Skills

• Understanding of risk assessment processes.
• Ability to collaborate effectively as part of a team.
• Flexibility to work across a range of special educational needs courses and/or various vocational settings.
• Commitment to maintaining excellence.

Benefits

• Substantial annual leave entitlement plus holiday purchase scheme.
• Health & Wellbeing: free gym membership, 24/7 counselling for you and your family.
• Family-friendly policies: flexible hours and a supportive work environment.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): confidential support including counselling, legal and financial advice.
• Professional development: extensive training, mentoring, and career progression opportunities.
• Funded CPD opportunities, regular staff development training, and paid volunteering days.
• Access to discounted hair and beauty treatments at our onsite salon.
• College benefit scheme – College Extras: Up to 15% cashback at top retailers & restaurants.
• Discounted gift cards for big brands.
• Home & tech upgrades via salary sacrifice.
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• Discounted onsite car parking.

Safeguarding Our Students

Middlesbrough College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all students. All staff are expected to share this commitment. If successful, you’ll be required to complete thorough pre‑employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. All posts within the College carry safeguarding responsibilities, including promoting student welfare, reporting any concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), and modelling safe and appropriate conduct in line with College policies.

Right to work

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.

Equality & Diversity

Middlesbrough College is an equal opportunities employer, committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone is valued. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and make recruitment decisions based on skills and experience. As a Disability Confident employer, we actively support applicants with disabilities.