At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with learning through play, 1:1 sessions, and group activities.
- Company: SGS Pegasus School, a specialist school for children with autism.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, health support, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Join a warm, collaborative team dedicated to celebrating individuality and achievements.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while fostering their independence and confidence.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEND, strong communication skills, and a compassionate approach.
The predicted salary is between 22262 - 23716 £ per year.
As a Learning Support Assistant, you will work closely with teachers and specialist staff to support pupils throughout the school day. You'll provide support through 1:1 learning, small group work and whole-class activities, helping every child access learning in a way that works for them. The role involves supporting pupils academically, socially and emotionally, helping them to build communication skills, confidence, independence and positive relationships. You'll play an important role in creating a calm, engaging and inclusive environment where children feel safe, valued and ready to learn. This particular role is based within one of our EYFS classes. Many of the children at Pegasus work within an EYFS stage of development and benefit from an EYFS model of practice, even where students may be chronologically older. Learning is often delivered through play, exploration, sensory experiences and life skills development. The role will also include personal care, including toileting and nappy changing, so we are looking for someone who is compassionate, respectful and comfortable supporting children with these everyday needs.
Responsibilities
- Supporting pupils throughout the school day in class, small groups and 1:1 sessions
- Helping children engage with learning through play-based and personalised approaches
- Supporting communication, emotional regulation and social development
- Building warm, trusting and positive relationships with pupils
- Working collaboratively with teachers, therapists and other professionals
- Encouraging independence, confidence and life skills
- Supporting pupils during transitions, routines and enrichment activities
- Promoting positive behaviour through relational approaches
- Supporting pupils with personal and intimate care where required
- Helping to create a safe, nurturing and inclusive learning environment
We are looking for someone who is patient, nurturing and passionate about supporting children and young people with SEND.
Ideal Criteria
- Experience supporting children or young people with autism and associated needs
- Experience working within an EYFS environment or EYFS approach to learning
- An understanding of social inclusion and personalised learning
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Effective behaviour management skills using relational approaches
- Good organisation and time management skills
- GCSEs (or equivalent Level 2 qualifications) across a range of subjects
- A child-centred and empathetic approach
- A commitment to continued professional development
Desirable Criteria
- A Level 3 or SEND-related qualification
- Experience supporting intimate care
- Experience developing links within the wider community
- Knowledge of partnership working
Full time equivalent salary: £25,583-£27,254 per annum. Actual salary for term-time only working is £22,262-£23,716 per annum, plus generous pension and sick pay scheme. 37 hours per week, 8:30am - 16:30pm Monday - Thursday, Friday 8:30am-16:00pm. Permanent, Term Time only. SGS Pegasus School is an innovative specialist school for children and young people with autism aged 4 - 19. We understand that every child is unique. Through personalised support and specialist teaching, we help young people build confidence, independence and a love of learning.
Benefits
- A genuinely inclusive and specialist setting
- Comprehensive induction and support
- Opportunities for ongoing training and professional development
- The chance to work alongside experienced SEND professionals
- A warm and collaborative team culture
- Meaningful work where you can see the impact you make every day
- Our students are curious, resilient and full of potential. We are proud to create an environment where individuality is celebrated and every achievement matters.
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Access to health and wellbeing support services
Learning Support Assistant in Bristol employer: SGS
SGS Pegasus School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and inclusive environment where Learning Support Assistants can thrive. With a strong focus on professional development and collaboration with experienced SEND professionals, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children with autism. The school promotes a warm team culture and provides generous benefits, including a local government pension scheme and health support services, making it an ideal place for those passionate about supporting young people in their learning journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Support Assistant in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, do a bit of research on SGS Pegasus School. Familiarise yourself with their values and approach to learning, especially around supporting children with SEND. This will show that you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a Learning Support Assistant, you'll need to build strong relationships with pupils and staff. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family to boost your confidence in handling different situations, especially those involving emotional support.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for inclusive education! During interviews, share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to supporting children with diverse needs. This will help you stand out as someone who truly cares about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to make it easy for you to join our team. By applying directly on our site, you’ll ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on any new opportunities!
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Assistant in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your passion for supporting children shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives, especially those with SEND.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have, particularly with EYFS or supporting children with autism. We love seeing how your background aligns with our needs, so don’t hold back!
Be Personable:Use a friendly tone in your application. We’re looking for someone who can build warm relationships with pupils, so let your personality come through in your writing!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity at SGS Pegasus School.
How to prepare for a job interview at SGS
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Learning Support Assistant. Understand how to support pupils academically, socially, and emotionally, especially in an EYFS environment. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you would use to engage children through play-based learning.
✨Show Your Compassion
Demonstrate your nurturing side during the interview. Share examples of how you've supported children with SEND in the past, particularly focusing on building trust and positive relationships. Highlight your patience and empathy, especially when discussing personal care tasks.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Be prepared to discuss how you would encourage communication and emotional regulation among pupils, and share any relevant experiences that showcase your relationship-building skills.
✨Emphasise Continuous Development
Express your commitment to ongoing professional development. Mention any relevant training or qualifications you have, and be open about your eagerness to learn more. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely invested in growing within the field of education.
