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- Tasks: Support students with additional needs and help them re-engage with learning.
- Company: Inclusive specialist secondary school near Reading, dedicated to student wellbeing.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, ongoing training, and opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives and inspire their potential.
- Qualifications: Empathy, strong communication skills, and a passion for supporting students.
- Other info: Join a supportive team focused on personal and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 30000 £ per year.
Location: Reading
Contract: Full-time, term-time only
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30am–3:30pm
Start Date: ASAP
Pay: £88–£115 per day
Do you want to make a real difference for young people who are disengaged from learning and are at risk of exclusion?
About the School
A welcoming and inclusive specialist secondary school near Reading is seeking a caring and resilient Pastoral and Learning Support Assistant to join their dedicated learning support team. The school is committed to supporting young people with a range of additional needs, including social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, as well as ADHD and Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). Many pupils face significant SEMH needs, challenging behaviours, and have experienced trauma or adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), so may also be disengaged from learning or at risk of exclusion. Relationship-building and consistency are key parts of the role.
Your Role
- Provide 1:1 and small-group support for students with additional or complex needs.
- Help disengaged young people re-engage with learning and feel valued in school life.
- Build positive, trusting relationships to encourage confidence, resilience, and motivation.
- Support teachers in adapting lessons and classroom environments to meet individual needs.
- Model positive behaviour and help students understand the value of education.
- Promote wellbeing, inclusion, and safeguarding at all times.
This role is ideal for someone passionate about supporting young people who need encouragement and understanding to succeed in education.
About You
- Empathetic, calm, and committed to helping students overcome barriers to learning.
- Able to inspire disengaged learners and help them see their potential.
- Experienced or interested in working with young people with SEN or SEMH needs (training provided).
- A strong communicator and positive role model.
- Able to work full-time during term time and collaborate with staff across the school.
What We Offer
- Ongoing training and CPD in behaviour management and SEN strategies.
- A supportive, forward-thinking team that values wellbeing and development.
- Opportunities to work with teachers, SEN professionals, and external agencies.
- Progression routes into teaching, pastoral work, mentoring, or educational psychology.
- A rewarding role where you can truly change young lives for the better.
Apply Now – contact Eleanor Chessun-Lawrence at Pertemps Education.
Graduate Pastoral and Learning Support Assistant employer: Pertemps Education Network
Contact Detail:
Pertemps Education Network Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Pastoral and Learning Support Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those who work with young people. Attend local events or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn more about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with school staff or during interviews, share your experiences and why you care about supporting young people. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the unexpected! Be ready to discuss how you'd handle specific scenarios with students who have SEMH needs. Think about examples from your past that demonstrate your skills in building relationships and promoting wellbeing.
✨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 are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Pastoral and Learning Support Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for supporting young people shine through. Share personal experiences or motivations that drive you to make a difference in the lives of those who are disengaged from learning.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of Pastoral and Learning Support Assistant. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that align with the job description, especially around supporting students with SEMH needs.
Be Authentic: We want to see the real you! Be authentic in your writing and let your personality come through. This will help us understand how you can build positive relationships with students and staff alike.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our supportive team at the school.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pertemps Education Network
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to research the school’s ethos and values. Understanding their commitment to inclusivity and support for students with SEMH needs will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
During the interview, be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy and support in previous roles or experiences. This is crucial for a Pastoral and Learning Support Assistant, so highlight any relevant situations where you made a positive impact.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your ability to handle challenging behaviours or support disengaged learners. Think about specific strategies you would use and be prepared to discuss how you would build relationships with students.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the role and the team. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you understand how you can contribute to the school’s mission.
