Learning Support Assistant (Hedleys College)

The Percy Hedley Foundation is one of the largest regional charities supporting people with a range of learning and physical needs. We take a person centred, flexible approach to the care and support we provide. We work towards excellence every day and our team members are committed to delivering the very best outcomes for the people we support. Our dynamic and flexible service is tailored to the specific needs of the individual, making it easier to live, learn and be part of a world adapting to change.

Hedley’s College is a high-quality specialist further education and training provider. We provide education and training for young people aged 16-25 with a range of learning difficulties and disabilities who require specialist individual programmes to develop their communication, independence, and employability skills. We help our learners make successful transitions into adulthood within the Northeast region.

The main role of the Learning Support Assistant (LSA) is to work as part of a team as directed by the group tutor alongside the therapy team, to support young peoples’ learning and care. Experience supporting young people with behaviour that challenges is essential. BSL level 1 or 2 and experience supporting those with autism would be desirable. Some experience of Team TEACH approaches or NAPPI would be desirable. Good communication and organisational skills are essential. Knowledge of Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC), particularly sensory processing difficulties would be an advantage.

It is important to be a real team player. Flexibility with an ability to adapt and respond to evolving situations is an important skill for our team that helps us maintain the highest level of care and support. The position is 37 hours per week and will involve working Mondays to Fridays between 8.30 – 5pm - Term Time Only (45 weeks per annum). You must be flexible to work across both our Forest Hall and Killingworth sites.

If you think you have what it takes to join our team, we would love to hear from you.

Hedley’s College encourages career development and progression. We run a robust training programme and we also have development opportunities both within college and across the wider Foundation. We also offer the following benefits to staff:

• Have the school holidays off!
• Loyalty awards starting at 2 years’ service
• Wellbeing support (including occupational health, physio services and counselling services)
• Contributory Pension Scheme
• Induction and ongoing training
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Access to a rewards scheme designed to save money on shopping
• Access to Blue Light Card
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Access to discounted Nexus Travel Corporate Pop Card (payments spread over 12 months and deducted from salary each month)

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore applicants should be aware that the post will only be offered to successful candidates subject to an Enhanced DBS and barring checks as well as other employment clearances such as referencing in line with our regulator’s legislation requirements.

Please note that this role is classed as regulated activity as it involves working directly with children and/or vulnerable adults. All shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a criminal records self-declaration form prior to interview, and all candidates will be subject to an online check prior to interview.

Please note it is an offence to apply for this role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children and the Percy Hedley Foundation has the right to respond appropriately.

The position will be closed once a suitable candidate has been appointed.