Learning Support Specialist for Inclusive Education

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 meet students’ individual support needs.
• Support students to develop independent learning, study, and behaviour management skills.
• Work collaboratively with teaching staff, cross-colleague teams, and external agencies.
• Support learning within classrooms, small groups, or full groups for short periods where required.
• Assist students with note-taking, reading, writing, and acting as a prompt.
• Provide support during entry-level Level 3 examinations as required.
• Assist students with mobility, transport arrangements, and movement between classes where necessary.
• Support social integration of students during breaks, lunch, and College activities.
• Where required, provide personal care, including toileting and use of hoists or assistive technology.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise:

• Level 2 qualification (or equivalent) in supporting learners with learning difficulties or care, or commitment to achieve within an agreed timescale.
• Maths and English at Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent).
• Willingness to undertake mandatory training relevant to the role.
• Vocational qualification at Level 2 (desirable).
• Safe Lifting & Handling qualification (desirable).
• First Aid qualification (desirable).

Experience:

• Knowledge or experience of working with learners with learning difficulties and disabilities.
• Vocational experience in a relevant subject area (desirable).

Knowledge & Skills:

• Understanding of health and safety and risk assessment procedures.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Flexible approach to working across a range of curriculum and vocational settings.
• Strong commitment to inclusive practice, safeguarding, and learner wellbeing.
• Willingness to engage in ongoing professional development.

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.

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.

Safeguarding: All staff are required to share a commitment to safeguarding; pre‑employment checks include enhanced DBS and satisfactory references. All roles within the College carry safeguarding responsibilities, including reporting concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead and modelling safe and appropriate conduct in line with College policies.