At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with special educational needs, promoting independence and learning.
- Company: Outstanding Specialist College dedicated to empowering diverse learners.
- Benefits: Career progression, pension schemes, employee wellbeing support, and discounts.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a vibrant community-focused atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with special needs and a commitment to safeguarding required.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Working Pattern: 36 hours per week, Term Time only (36 working weeks), 8.45 am – 4.30 pm Monday to Thursday and 8.45 am – 4.15 pm on Friday.
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, where committed specialist teams deliver a variety of programmes designed to meet the diverse needs of our students. 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.
Key Responsibilities
- Demonstrate the mentality that students can and do achieve.
- Follow instructions and guidance from the Classroom Lecturer to provide support for students, reinforcing their learning and constantly promoting independence, including a complete understanding of destinations and targets.
- Encourage students in all areas of the curriculum to progress to their chosen career destination, gain greater independence at home and promote community‑based learning.
- Positively support the health and wellbeing of learners by following the guidelines for individual support, care needs and medical interventions (including basic first aid and administration of PRN medications such as EpiPen).
- Follow the Health and Safety policy and procedures to ensure the safety of learners and staff at all times.
Qualifications and Experience
- Experience of working within a team.
- Experience of working with or caring for children or adults who have barriers to learning and/or special educational needs.
- Must hold Level 1 Maths and Level 2 English qualifications or be willing to enrol on a functional skills course within your first year of employment and complete the course within 2 years.
- Ability to demonstrate a commitment to the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults.
- Ability to take responsibility for individual and small groups of students, with a range of needs, including behaviours of concern, in different settings.
Benefits
- Pathways for progression within the trust, ensuring you can grow and thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Pension Scheme – enrolled in either the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) or the Teachers' Pension Scheme (TPS), offering life cover and financial protection for your family.
- Salary Sacrifice Schemes – Cycle Scheme, Home Electronics Scheme.
- Employee Wellbeing – access to counselling, mental health support, generous leave, flexible working, and enhanced parental leave.
- Employee Discounts – Blue Light Card, Costco Membership, other discounts for teachers.
- Other – Season Ticket Loan and Employee Referral Scheme.
Learning Support Assistant in Uxbridge employer: Orchard Hill College
Orchard Hill College Academy Trust (OHCAT) is an exceptional employer dedicated to supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises professional development and employee well-being. With a strong commitment to high-quality provision and specialist expertise, OHCAT provides unique opportunities for growth and leadership in the education sector, making it an ideal place for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable young people across London, Surrey, Sussex, and Berkshire.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Support Assistant in Uxbridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those who work with special educational needs. You never know who might have a lead on a Learning Support Assistant role or can give you insider tips.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to supporting students with diverse needs. We recommend role-playing with a friend or family member to build your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, share your enthusiasm for helping students achieve their goals. Let them see how committed you are to making a difference in their lives.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Assistant in Uxbridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting students shine through. We want to see how much you care about helping learners achieve their goals and become independent.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have working with individuals who have special educational needs. We love seeing how your background aligns with our mission at Orchard Hill College.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your skills and experiences are easy to understand and directly related to the role of Learning Support Assistant.
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.
How to prepare for a job interview at Orchard Hill College
✨Know Your Students
Before the interview, take some time to research the specific needs of the students at Orchard Hill College. Understanding the diverse challenges they face will help you demonstrate your commitment to supporting their learning and independence.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since teamwork is crucial in this role, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous positions. Highlighting your ability to work well within a team will show that you're a great fit for their community-focused environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations involving students with special educational needs. Think through potential scenarios and prepare thoughtful responses that reflect your understanding of their unique requirements and your problem-solving skills.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Safeguarding
Make sure to convey your dedication to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults during the interview. Be prepared to discuss any relevant training or experiences you have that demonstrate your awareness of health and safety policies and procedures.
