At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with additional needs in their learning and emotional development.
- Company: Join a respected SEN school in Pontefract dedicated to helping young people thrive.
- Benefits: Earn Β£101.92 β Β£110 per day with ongoing training and career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in SEN roles or relevant degrees in Psychology, Education, or related fields.
- Other info: Ideal for those living in Pontefract, Castleford, Wakefield, Normanton, or Featherstone.
The predicted salary is between 21000 - 24000 Β£ per year.
Learning Support Assistant
Learning Support Assistant β SEND School (Autism, Communication & Complex Needs)
Location: Pontefract (WF7) β commutable from Castleford, Normanton, Wakefield, Featherstone & Doncaster (drivers strongly encouraged)
Salary: Β£101.40 β Β£120 per day
Hours: 8:30am β 3:30pm, Monday to Friday
Start Date: January
A Brilliant Opportunity to Make a Real Difference in a Leading SEND School
Are you someone who genuinely cares about helping children with additional needs thrive?
Are you searching for a long-term, stable position where you can grow, develop and be valued?
We are looking to appoint five exceptional Learning Support Assistants to join a highly regarded SEND school in Pontefract. The school supports pupils aged 5β16 with autism, communication differences (including non-verbal pupils), sensory needs, medical needs and complex learning difficulties.
If youβre committed, compassionate and eager to build a meaningful career in SEND, this is an opportunity not to miss.
Your Role Will Include:
Providing 1:1 and small-group support to children who require consistent, high-quality care
Supporting pupils with autism and communication needs using PECS, Makaton, visuals and sensory tools
Helping pupils self-regulate and manage behaviour in a calm, structured and nurturing way
Assisting with personal care and basic medical needs (full training provided)
Using routine-based learning and sensory play to support individual EHCP outcomes
Working in partnership with teachers, SENCOs, therapists and behaviour specialists
Weβd Love to Hear From You If You Have:
Experience supporting children or young people with SEND (school, care or residential backgrounds welcome)
Knowledge of autism, communication needs or SEMH
A calm, patient, resilient and nurturing approach
Strong reliability and commitment to full-time work
The ability to travel to Pontefract β ideal if you live in Doncaster and drive
Desirable backgrounds include: SEN support, youth work, care, psychology, criminology, behaviour mentoring or residential childcare.
What Makes This Role Stand Out?
Excellent daily pay: Β£101.40 β Β£120
A supportive, well-resourced SEND school with strong leadership
High-quality training, CPD and clear progression pathways
Long-term stability and opportunities to grow your career
The chance to make a genuine, life-changing difference every day
Pathways into teaching, therapy, pastoral and behaviour roles
This Role is Ideal For:
Experienced SEN Learning Support Assistants
Teaching Assistants looking for SEND experience
Psychology / Criminology graduates
Residential care workers or support workers
Youth workers, behaviour mentors or family support staff
Anyone passionate about supporting children with additional needs
Apply Today
If you want a rewarding, purposeful role within a fantastic SEND school in Pontefract, weβd love to hear from you.
INLDS
Learning Support Assistant employer: Milk Education
Contact Detail:
Milk Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Learning Support Assistant
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with autism, ADHD, and SEMH. Understanding these conditions will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine passion for supporting these pupils.
β¨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the SEN field. Attend local workshops or seminars related to special educational needs to meet people who can provide insights and possibly refer you to opportunities at our school.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Sharing personal experiences can highlight your suitability for the role and your commitment to making a difference.
β¨Tip Number 4
Research our schoolβs ethos and values. Being able to articulate how your personal beliefs align with our mission will show that youβre not just looking for any job, but that you genuinely want to be part of our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Assistant
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience you have in supporting children with additional needs. Include specific roles, responsibilities, and achievements that demonstrate your understanding of autism, ADHD, and SEMH.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for helping children achieve their potential. Mention your relevant background, skills, and why you are particularly interested in this role at the SEN school in Pontefract.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise your communication and teamwork skills, as well as your calm and empathetic approach. These qualities are essential for a Learning Support Assistant and should be clearly articulated.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application to ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Milk Education
β¨Show Your Passion for SEN
Make sure to express your genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs. Share any personal experiences or motivations that led you to pursue this role, as it will resonate well with the interviewers.
β¨Demonstrate Relevant Experience
Highlight any previous experience you have in similar roles, such as being a Learning Support Assistant or working in youth care. Be prepared to discuss specific situations where you successfully supported a child with autism, ADHD, or other learning difficulties.
β¨Emphasise Teamwork Skills
Since the role involves working closely with teachers and therapists, showcase your ability to collaborate effectively. Provide examples of how you've worked as part of a team in the past and how you can contribute to a positive learning environment.
β¨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Anticipate scenario-based questions that may be asked during the interview. Think about how you would handle specific situations involving behaviour management or emotional support, and be ready to articulate your approach clearly.