At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with additional needs, helping them thrive in a dynamic school environment.
- Company: Welcoming secondary school in Wakefield dedicated to student success.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, training opportunities, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth and potential permanent position in the future.
- Why this job: Be that memorable person who helps students feel seen and supported every day.
- Qualifications: No specific experience needed, just a positive attitude and passion for helping others.
We’re working with a welcoming secondary school in Wakefield that’s on the lookout for an SEN Teaching Assistant to join their team this September. This isn’t a sit-on-the-sidelines kind of role. You’ll be right in the mix, supporting students with a range of additional needs, from behavioural challenges to varied learning needs, helping them feel understood, supported, and ready to succeed.
What you’ll be doing:
- Supporting students 1:1, building trust and confidence where it matters most
- Leading small group sessions, helping learners engage in a way that works for them
- Working alongside teachers to adapt learning and keep students on track
- Supporting both behaviour and learning, with patience, consistency, and a calm approach
- Celebrating the small wins, because they matter just as much as the big ones
What we’re looking for:
- Outgoing and approachable, someone students feel comfortable around
- Friendly, with a natural ability to build relationships
- Keen to learn and develop, open to growing your skills in SEN support
- Resilient and positive, even on the tougher days
- Genuinely passionate about helping young people thrive
Because it’s more than a job. It’s a chance to be that person a student remembers. The one who helped them stay in class, understand a topic, or simply feel seen. If you’re someone who brings energy, empathy, and a bit of personality to everything you do, this could be a brilliant next step.
Ready to get started? Apply now and let’s have a chat. September will be here before we know it.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQs on the Protocol Education website for further details. All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Protocol Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with the DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’, this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants. We offer FREE online safeguarding and Prevent Duty training to all our workers. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and subscribe to the DBS Update Service. Full assistance provided.
Learning Support Specialist employer: Protocol Education
At Protocol Education, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. As a Learning Support Specialist in Wakefield, you will have the opportunity to make a real difference in students' lives while benefiting from ongoing professional development and training, including our Thrive programme. Our culture is built on collaboration, empathy, and celebrating every achievement, ensuring that you feel valued and empowered in your role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Support Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school culture before your interview. Check out their website, social media, and any reviews you can find. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to SEN support. Think about specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your skills and passion for helping students thrive.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to ask questions during your interview! This shows your enthusiasm and helps you figure out if the school is the right fit for you. Ask about their approach to SEN support and how they celebrate student successes.
✨Tip Number 4
After your interview, send a quick thank-you email. It’s a nice touch that keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your appreciation for the opportunity. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your interest in the role!
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your passion for helping students and your unique approach to learning support.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. Mention specific examples of how you've supported students in the past, especially those with additional needs, to show us you’re the right fit.
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we love a good story, keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and get to the point quickly. This helps us understand your qualifications and enthusiasm without wading through too much fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates about the role. Let’s get started!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protocol Education
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Learning Support Specialist inside out. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with SEN and think about how you can support them. This will show your genuine interest and commitment to making a difference.
✨Show Your Personality
This role is all about building relationships, so let your personality shine through during the interview. Be friendly and approachable, and share personal anecdotes that highlight your ability to connect with young people. Remember, they want someone who can bring energy and empathy to the classroom!
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations with students. Think about examples from your past experiences or hypothetical scenarios where you can demonstrate patience, resilience, and creativity in supporting learners. Practising these responses will help you feel more confident.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's approach to SEN support, how they celebrate student achievements, or what professional development opportunities are available. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
