At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with additional needs, helping them thrive academically and emotionally.
- Company: A nurturing specialist school in Dorking focused on emotional wellbeing.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly pay, weekly pay, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to positive outcomes for students.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives every day.
- Qualifications: Experience with children is a plus, but passion and patience are key.
The predicted salary is between 14 - 16 € per hour.
Are you passionate about supporting children and young people with additional needs? Do you want to make a genuine difference every single day as a Learning Support Assistant in Dorking? We are currently seeking a compassionate, resilient and enthusiastic Learning Support Assistant to join a specialist setting in Dorking that supports boys aged 9–16 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, alongside additional learning and attachment difficulties. This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a highly supportive environment where relationships, emotional wellbeing and personalised learning are at the heart of everything.
About the School
This specialist provision in Dorking supports students with EHCPs who require a nurturing, structured and therapeutic approach to education. The school provides small class sizes, personalised learning pathways and a strong focus on emotional development, confidence building and positive outcomes. Students attending the school may present with SEMH needs, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), attachment difficulties and moderate learning difficulties. Staff work closely together to provide consistent support, helping pupils build positive relationships, regulate emotions and engage successfully in education. The school also offers a range of therapeutic interventions and wellbeing support designed to help students thrive both academically and emotionally.
The Role – Learning Support Assistant
As a Learning Support Assistant in Dorking, you will play a vital role in supporting students both inside and outside the classroom. The successful Learning Support Assistant will help pupils overcome barriers to learning, build confidence and develop positive social and emotional skills. This role would suit someone patient, adaptable and passionate about supporting young people with additional needs.
Key Responsibilities
- Supporting students on a 1:1 and small group basis
- Assisting teachers in delivering engaging and differentiated lessons
- Helping students regulate emotions and manage behaviours positively
- Building strong, trusting relationships with pupils
- Supporting students with social, emotional and mental health needs
- Encouraging independence, confidence and self-esteem
- Assisting with behaviour management strategies and emotional regulation techniques
- Promoting a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment
- Working collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs and pastoral staff
- Supporting students during transitions, breaktimes and enrichment activities
Experience & Transferable Skills We Are Looking For
Previous school experience is beneficial but not essential. We welcome applications from individuals with transferable skills and experience such as:
- Teaching Assistants or Learning Support Assistants
- Youth workers
- Care workers
- Residential support staff
- Sports coaches
- Psychology graduates
- Counsellors or mentoring professionals
- Individuals with personal experience supporting children with SEND
The ideal Learning Support Assistant in Dorking will be:
- Calm, patient and resilient
- Confident building positive relationships
- Able to remain professional in challenging situations
- A strong communicator and team player
- Committed to safeguarding and promoting wellbeing
SENDhelp is an equal opportunities employer.
SEN Learning Support assistant in Dorking employer: SENDhelp
At SENDhelp, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for both our staff and students. Located in Dorking, our specialist setting offers a collaborative work culture where you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people with additional needs, while also benefiting from ongoing professional development and a strong focus on emotional wellbeing. Join us to be part of a team that values compassion, resilience, and personal growth, ensuring that every day is rewarding and fulfilling.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Learning Support assistant in Dorking
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work with children with additional needs. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to supporting students with SEMH needs. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the role. We want you to shine and show how passionate you are about making a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! If you have any relevant experience or training, be sure to highlight it during interviews. Whether it's working with youth or having personal experience, let them know how you can contribute to their supportive environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and eager to join our community.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Learning Support assistant in Dorking
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your passion for supporting children and young people with additional needs shine through. We want to see your enthusiasm for making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have, whether it's from previous roles or transferable skills. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role of Learning Support Assistant, so don’t hold back!
Be Authentic:Don’t be afraid to show your personality! We appreciate authenticity, so share your unique approach to building relationships and supporting students. It helps us get to know the real you.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to review your application and get you on board as a Learning Support Assistant in Dorking!
How to prepare for a job interview at SENDhelp
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the specific needs of students with SEMH and other additional needs. Familiarise yourself with the school's approach to personalised learning and emotional wellbeing. This will show your genuine interest and commitment to supporting these young people.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Even if you don't have direct experience in a school setting, think about how your previous roles as a youth worker, care worker, or even a sports coach can translate into this position. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported individuals in overcoming challenges and building confidence.
✨Demonstrate Your Patience and Resilience
In your responses, highlight situations where you've had to be patient and adaptable. The role requires a calm demeanour, especially when working with students who may struggle with emotional regulation. Share stories that illustrate your ability to remain composed and supportive in challenging situations.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions that show you're thinking about the role and the students you'll be supporting. Ask about the types of therapeutic interventions used at the school or how they measure student progress. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.
