Learning Support Assistant EBSA Secondary in Colchester

Keys Co-operative Academy Trust has an exciting opportunity for aspiring Learning Support Assistants (EBSA Secondary). The role involves supporting secondary pupils experiencing Emotional Based School Avoidance (EBSA), helping them rebuild confidence, manage anxiety, and re-engage with their learning.

The position start date is effective from 1st September 2026. The position is 37 hours per week, with the following working pattern:

• Monday to Thursday: 8:30am to 4:30pm
• Friday: 8:30am to 4:00pm

What you'll be expected to do in the role:

• Build trusting relationships and act as a positive role model for pupils
• Deliver bespoke intervention programmes and track progress
• Support teaching and learning, including planning and resource preparation
• Use ICT to support and enhance learning
• Promote positive behaviour and contribute to a safe, inclusive school culture
• Collaborate with colleagues, parents, and carers to support pupil reintegration and progress
• Participate in training and ongoing professional development

What we're looking for:

• Understanding of the impact of trauma and adversity on children
• Experience working with children with SEND (desirable)
• Strong organisational, communication, and teamwork skills
• Commitment to equality, safeguarding, and the values of Keys Co-operative Academy Trust
• Willingness to undertake relevant training and development

What we offer:

• Ongoing CPD and training opportunities, including Trauma Perceived Practice (TPP)
• Supportive colleagues and a positive working environment
• Opportunities for development and progression within the Trust

Please read the full job description attached, which lists all the duties you would be expected to cover.

Interviews are to be held on Friday 12th June 2026. We reserve the right to withdraw the advert early where required.

The following pre-employment checks will be required where applicable to the role and setting:

• Receipt of satisfactory references
• Verification of identity
• A satisfactory DBS disclosure if undertaking Regulated Activity
• Verification that you are not barred from working with Children
• Verification that you are not prohibited from teaching
• Verification of medical fitness for the particular role
• Verification of qualifications and of professional status where required e.g. QTS status
• The production of evidence of the right to work in the UK
• Verification of successful completion of/exemption from statutory induction period
• Verification that you are not subject to a section 128 direction preventing you from holding a management position within a school (if applicable)
• A declaration that you are not disqualified from working with children by virtue of the Childcare (Disqualification) Regulations 2018 or that you have provided a valid disqualification waiver from Ofsted

In line with recommended practice in the statutory guidance "Keeping Children Safe in Education", the school will conduct searches for information on shortlisted candidates which is publicly available online. The purpose is limited to identifying issues which call into question the applicant's suitability to work with children and to verify employment history. Only information related to these purposes will be shared with the Panel. Any information will be discussed with candidates at interview before any decisions regarding the recruitment process are made.

Keys Co-operative Academy Trust is committed to safer recruitment practices, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check, medical clearance and satisfactory references.

NEECA is a 5 – 16 school for 170 young people most of whom have found it difficult to be successful in a mainstream school. We are very proud of the provision we offer. Students are taught in small groups and they study the core curriculum at Key Stages 1, 2, 3 and 4. In addition to the core curriculum, we provide rich and varied extended curriculum opportunities ranging from music therapy, targeted literacy intervention, horse riding to vocational courses and work experience placements. Small classes benefit students and enable them to make good progress as staff can ensure that learning is tailored to individual student needs.

At Key Stage 3, in partnership with local schools, we focus on supporting young people to return to a mainstream school. At Key Stage 4, we focus on providing the opportunity for students to gain 5 GCSEs to ensure a successful transition to post 16 education or training. Many of the young people who attend NEECA arrive here at a point of crisis or conflict in their lives. It is our aim to ensure that we help them to regain a sense of confidence and self-esteem which allows them to compete on equal terms with their peers, despite the disruption to their education caused by leaving mainstream school.

The secondary school is based at Walnut Tree Way, Colchester, Essex CO2 9BS and the Primary school is based at Turner Road, Colchester, Essex CO4 5LB. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.