At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individual pupils with learning needs and celebrate their successes.
- Company: Join Northampton High School, a leader in girls' education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and discounts for children at GDST schools.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community committed to inclusion and positive change.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Teaching Assistant Qualification or equivalent required.
At Northampton High School, we are pioneers in girls’ education and aim to reshape the future of learning itself. We are looking for a SEND Learning Support Assistant to join our team.
To succeed in this role, you will have a passion for supporting individual pupils and want to champion learning and development at every opportunity whilst celebrating individual success. You will be able to form good relationships with individual pupils and bring energy to every task with a patient and positive outlook. You will have a Level 3 Teaching Assistant Qualification or equivalent as a minimum.
What skills and experience you’ll bring to the role:
- Build strong, trusting relationships and take time to really understand a child’s needs
- Have patience, empathy and a calm, encouraging approach
- Can adapt learning and explain things in a way that makes sense to the child they are supporting
- Use praise, reassurance and gentle challenge to help develop confidence and independence
- Enjoy celebrating progress in all its forms - big and small
- Works well as part of a team, collaborating with teachers, the Learning Enhancement Coordinator and other professionals
- Is observant and reflective, able to respond to a child’s needs in the moment
- Supports positive behaviour with consistency, kindness and clear expectations
- Is committed to inclusion and believes every child deserves to feel successful
- Warmth, positivity and a good sense of humour - to each day
Benefits:
- Competitive salaries and pay progression
- Access to extensive professional development opportunities
- Training grants for qualifications
- A discount of up to 50% on fees for children at GDST schools
- Generous pension schemes
- Free life assurance benefit
- Interest free loans for training, computer purchase loans and travel season ticket loans
- A Cycle to Work scheme
- Competitive terms and conditions of employment
About the School:
Northampton High School, part of the Girls' Day School Trust (GDST), is an independent girls' day school with a reputation for academic excellence, strong pastoral care and a wide breadth of extra-curricular activity. We offer a Nursery, Junior and Senior School across one site and we are proud to be at the forefront of education for girls and a strong voice in promoting opportunities for young women.
The GDST is committed to diversity, inclusion and real change: a family where every individual is valued, respected and included. The GDST is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including online searches and checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Location: Northampton
Salary: £17,133.99 actual (£27,171.00 FTE)
Hours: Part Time
Required from: 1st September 2026
Contract: Fixed term contract and is subject to external funding provided to support an individual pupil with an Education, Health and Care Plan.
SEND Learning Support Assistant in Northampton employer: Smart Hire
At Northampton High School, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of girls' education, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that champions professional growth and development. As part of the GDST network, our SEND Learning Support Assistants benefit from competitive salaries, extensive training opportunities, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, all while making a meaningful impact on the lives of our pupils in a nurturing and dynamic setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Learning Support Assistant in Northampton
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Northampton High School. Understand their values and how they support SEND students. This will help you connect your passion for education with their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your storytelling skills! Think of specific examples from your experience where you've built strong relationships with pupils or adapted learning strategies. We want to hear those stories that showcase your patience and empathy!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your teamwork spirit! Be ready to discuss how you’ve collaborated with teachers and other professionals in the past. Highlighting your ability to work as part of a team will show that you’re a great fit for their collaborative environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you email expressing your enthusiasm for the role. It’s a simple way to stand out and remind them why you’d be a fantastic addition to their team.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Learning Support Assistant in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting pupils shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their learning journey!
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 built relationships and supported individual needs in the past.
Be Personable:Use a friendly tone in your written application. We love seeing warmth and positivity in your words, so don’t be afraid to let your personality come through!
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 receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smart Hire
✨Know Your Pupils
Before the interview, take some time to think about how you would approach understanding a child's individual needs. Be ready to share examples of how you've built strong relationships with pupils in the past and how you adapt your support to suit their unique learning styles.
✨Show Your Passion
Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for supporting SEND pupils. Share stories that highlight your patience, empathy, and positive outlook. This role is all about championing learning, so let your passion shine through!
✨Team Player Mindset
Collaboration is key in this role. Be prepared to discuss how you work effectively with teachers and other professionals. Think of specific instances where teamwork led to positive outcomes for pupils, and be ready to demonstrate your commitment to inclusion.
✨Celebrate Progress
During the interview, emphasise your belief in celebrating every bit of progress, no matter how small. Share examples of how you've used praise and encouragement to boost a child's confidence and independence, showing that you understand the importance of recognising achievements.
