Learning Support Assistant - Orchard Hill College, Beaconsfield Centre
Learning Support Assistant - Orchard Hill College, Beaconsfield Centre

Learning Support Assistant - Orchard Hill College, Beaconsfield Centre

Full-Time 22306 - 23598 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support students' wellbeing and independence in a safe, inclusive environment.
  • Company: Orchard Hill College, an Outstanding Specialist College transforming lives.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, employee discounts, and wellbeing support.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills.
  • Qualifications: Empathy, energy, and a passion for helping young adults thrive.
  • Other info: Flexible working hours and excellent training opportunities.

The predicted salary is between 22306 - 23598 £ per year.

We are seeking caring, enthusiastic Learning Support Assistants who want to make a real difference. You will support students' wellbeing, confidence, and independence while helping create a safe, inclusive learning environment. No experience is required, just empathy, energy, and a passion for helping young adults thrive.

Key Responsibilities

  • Build positive, trusting relationships and support students' wellbeing, independence, and participation.
  • Support students' wellbeing, confidence, and independence while helping create a safe, inclusive learning environment.
  • Commitment to student wellbeing and safety, with willingness to learn and take part in training.

Qualifications and Attributes

  • Positive, flexible attitude with reliability and professionalism.
  • A caring, patient, and empathetic approach with strong communication skills.

Salary and Working Hours

  • Salary: Grade 1C/3, spine points 9 - 17, Outer London £22,306 - £23,598 (FTE £28,218 - £29,852).
  • Working Pattern: 36 hours per week, term time only (36 working weeks). Standard hours are 8:45am-4:30pm Monday to Thursday and 8:45am-4:15pm on Fridays, with flexibility for applicants who do not wish to work a full five‑day week.

Benefits

  • Pension Scheme – you will be enrolled in either the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) or the Teachers' Pension Scheme (TPS).
  • Salary Sacrifice Schemes.
  • Employee Wellbeing – access to counselling, mental health support, generous leave, flexible working, enhanced parental leave, Employee Assistance Programme, MyGym Discounts, Corporate Eyecare Scheme.
  • Employee Discounts – Blue Light Card, Costco Membership, Discounts for Teachers.

About Orchard Hill College

Orchard Hill College is an Outstanding Specialist College (Ofsted, April 2025) offering life‑changing learning opportunities to young people and adults with a range of special education needs and/or disabilities. We operate vibrant community‑based College Centres across London and Surrey. Students who study with us have a wide range of needs including profound and multiple learning disabilities, communication and behavioural difficulties and specific medical needs. All students are individual, and their learning programme is designed to support and empower them to achieve their aspirations and goals, whilst developing skills to become more independent members of their community.

About the Orchard Hill College Academy Trust

The College is an Academy sponsor and established the Orchard Hill College Academy Trust in 2013 which is home to 13 special schools. Together, Orchard Hill College & Academy Trust provide for over 1500 pupils and students with SEN across London, Surrey, Sussex and Berkshire. Working together to transform lives is what we do and across the whole organisation we have a range of experts and practitioners who advocate for children and young people with SEND to ensure they receive the best possible opportunities to achieve their full potential.

Our Commitment to Equality

We are committed to promoting and advancing equality of opportunity by attracting and retaining the most diverse range of students, staff and partners. In return, we offer training and development, competitive pay and benefits in a positive and inclusive working environment.

Application Process

Your application form will be scored according to each of the requirements laid out in the person specification for this role. Please demonstrate in your statement how your experience, skills and knowledge match the criteria that are required for the role.

Learning Support Assistant - Orchard Hill College, Beaconsfield Centre employer: Orchard Hill College

Orchard Hill College is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for Learning Support Assistants. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, we offer generous benefits including access to mental health support, flexible working arrangements, and professional development opportunities. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the lives of young adults with special educational needs while enjoying a rewarding career in a vibrant community-focused setting.
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Contact Detail:

Orchard Hill College Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Learning Support Assistant - Orchard Hill College, Beaconsfield Centre

✨Tip Number 1

Get to know the college! Research Orchard Hill College and its values. Understanding their mission will help you connect your passion for supporting students with their goals during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff on LinkedIn. They can give you insider tips on what it’s really like working there and might even put in a good word for you!

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for the interview by thinking about real-life examples of how you've shown empathy and support in past experiences. Even if you haven't worked in education, any relevant experience counts!

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Orchard Hill community.

We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Assistant - Orchard Hill College, Beaconsfield Centre

Empathy
Energy
Passion for helping young adults
Positive attitude
Flexibility
Reliability
Professionalism
Caring approach
Patience
Strong communication skills
Commitment to student wellbeing and safety
Willingness to learn
Ability to build positive relationships
Support for independence and participation

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting students shine through! We want to see your genuine interest in helping young adults thrive and how you can contribute to their wellbeing.

Tailor Your Statement: Make sure to align your experience and skills with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your caring and empathetic approach, so don’t hold back!

Be Professional Yet Personal: While we love a friendly tone, remember to keep it professional. Use clear language and structure your application well. A neat and organised application reflects your reliability and professionalism, which is super important for us.

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 this fantastic opportunity at Orchard Hill College.

How to prepare for a job interview at Orchard Hill College

✨Show Your Empathy

As a Learning Support Assistant, empathy is key. During the interview, share personal experiences where you've supported someone in need or helped them overcome challenges. This will demonstrate your caring nature and ability to build positive relationships.

✨Highlight Your Flexibility

The role requires a positive and flexible attitude. Be ready to discuss how you've adapted to changing situations in the past. Whether it’s adjusting your approach to meet someone's needs or being open to new training opportunities, showing your adaptability will impress the interviewers.

✨Communicate Clearly

Strong communication skills are essential for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You might even want to prepare a few examples of how you've effectively communicated with others, especially in challenging situations.

✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Wellbeing

Make sure to express your dedication to student wellbeing and safety. Discuss any relevant experiences or training that showcase your commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment. This will align perfectly with the college's values and mission.

Learning Support Assistant - Orchard Hill College, Beaconsfield Centre
Orchard Hill College

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