Neuro-Inclusive Senior Learning Assistant

Days: 3 – 3.5 days per week, to be agreed in line with the successful candidate’s preference.

We are seeking an experienced and highly capable Higher-Level Learning Assistant to join our talented and committed team, working across different groups across the provision. This enhanced role is designed for an individual who can take a proactive position in supporting autistic learners who have self-excluded from mainstream school due to anxiety, while working collaboratively with Senior Learning Facilitators.

The successful candidate will play a central role in creating a calm, emotionally safe and engaging learning environment that enables young people to rebuild confidence, develop independence and re-engage with education. The role will focus on supporting Maths and English lessons, working closely with the Oaks Rise specialist maths and English teachers. In addition to supporting learners directly, the Higher-Level Learning Assistant will contribute to planning, support assessment and progress recording, implement personalised learning and wellbeing strategies and help shape best practice across the provision.

Job requirements:

• At least 5 years’ experience working with children including autistic children and young people in educational, therapeutic or alternative provision settings.
• Strong understanding of neuro-affirming, low-demand and consent-based practice.
• Experience supporting learners with high anxiety, emotionally based school avoidance and PDA profiles.
• GCSE Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent) in English and maths.
• Confidence supporting learners in English and maths across a broad range of attainment levels, including Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3 curriculum content.
• Excellent relationship-building and communication skills with young people, families and colleagues.

Additional Information:

• Term-time working only with 52-week salary arrangement.
• Pension and occupational sick pay scheme. Access to a confidential Employee Assistance Programme plus a range of other benefits.
• Free parking.
• 1 hour lunch break with no learners on site. 9.00am start but learner-facing from 9.30am. Start & end times can be flexible for the right candidate.
• Comprehensive induction and high-quality ongoing professional development.
• Genuine commitment to staff wellbeing and neuro-inclusive working practices.
• Opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the development of an innovative and values-led provision.
• Supportive, experienced and highly collaborative team environment. Hugely fulfilling & rewarding role.
• Flexible working arrangements where possible including flexible start and end times.

Safeguarding Statement: Oaks Rise is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Before appointment to any role, checks, including an Enhanced DBS Check, identification checks, workplace references and a fitness to work check plus others will be undertaken, in accordance with current statutory guidance. Evidence of eligibility to work in the UK is required. A probationary period will also apply during which suitability to work with children will be monitored and assessed.