At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with additional learning needs in a nurturing and structured environment.
- Company: Award-winning recruitment agency with over 30 years in education.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, expert support, and accredited training opportunities.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and enjoy excellent career growth in a supportive setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young learners while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with children with ALN or a strong willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 18600 - 18600 £ per year.
New Directions are an award-winning recruitment agency, with a background of over 30 years in education. We are recruiting specialist ALN support assistants to work within a day special school for pupils aged 3–19. This setting supports children and young people with severe learning difficulties, profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD), moderate learning difficulties (MLD), social emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, or autistic spectrum disorders (ASD).
Responsibilities and Requirements
- Experience working with children and young people with additional learning needs (ALN/SEN), or a strong willingness to develop expertise in this area.
- Understanding of social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs and the ability to support pupils through nurturing, structured and trauma‑informed approaches.
- The successful candidate will be expected to deliver high‑quality support and teaching, working with pupils in small groups as well as on a 1:1 basis across the curriculum.
- The successful candidate will demonstrate strong classroom practice, effective use of ICT, high expectations for pupil engagement and achievement, and a commitment to working collaboratively to provide the best opportunities for all learners.
Benefits and Training
What New Directions Education Ltd offers:
- A dedicated and expert Account Manager
- Competitive rates of pay
- Refer‑A‑Friend Scheme
- Full compliance with the Agency Workers Regulation (AWR)
- One of the preferred suppliers to all 22 local authorities in Wales under the All‑Wales Framework Agreement
- We are the major teaching supply agency for Welsh speaking teachers across Wales
- We also offer our candidates the opportunity to take part in our fantastic training courses/webinars which take place during Half term periods, all of which are fully accredited and include:
- Team Teach
- British sign Language levels 1 & 2
- ACE’S (Adverse Childhood Experiences)
- First Aid
- And many more!
We are fully committed to the protection of children and vulnerable adults. All applicants must undertake a full enhanced DBS (formerly CRB) check.
Specialist Learning Support Practitioner (ALN) in Barry employer: New Directions Holdings Limited
New Directions is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for Specialist Learning Support Practitioners in the Vale of Glamorgan. With competitive pay, comprehensive training opportunities, and a commitment to professional development, employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children with additional learning needs. The company's strong ties with local authorities and focus on nurturing approaches ensure that staff are well-equipped to provide high-quality support in a rewarding setting.
Contact Details:
New Directions Holdings Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist Learning Support Practitioner (ALN) in Barry
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, join relevant groups on social media, and attend local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Tailor your approach! When you find a role that excites you, make sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills in conversations. Show how your background aligns with the needs of the school and the specific challenges they face.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to appear. Reach out directly to schools or agencies like New Directions to express your interest. A friendly email or call can set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep learning! Take advantage of training opportunities, like those offered by New Directions. Not only does this boost your CV, but it also shows your commitment to professional development and working with children with additional learning needs.
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist Learning Support Practitioner (ALN) in Barry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with children and young people with additional learning needs. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant experience!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting learners with ALN shine through in your application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in the lives of children and young people, so share your motivation and commitment!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your writing is easy to read and free from jargon. Highlight your key achievements and experiences without overcomplicating things.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at New Directions Holdings Limited
✨Know Your ALN Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of additional learning needs (ALN) and the specific challenges faced by children with severe learning difficulties, SEMH needs, and ASD. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared for the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
If you've worked with children with special educational needs before, be ready to share specific examples of your experiences. Talk about how you supported their learning and emotional needs, and highlight any successful strategies you used. If you’re new to this area, express your eagerness to learn and develop your skills.
✨Demonstrate Your Teamwork Skills
Collaboration is key in this role, so be prepared to discuss how you work with others. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with teachers, parents, or other support staff to create a positive learning environment. This will show that you understand the importance of teamwork in supporting students.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's approach to supporting ALN students, the training opportunities available, or how they measure success in the classroom. This not only shows your interest but also helps you determine if the school is the right fit for you.
