At a Glance
- Tasks: Support secondary pupils with special educational needs in a calm and structured environment.
- Company: Specialist SEN secondary school dedicated to student development.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, ongoing training, and potential for permanent roles.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience with children or transferable skills from care or support roles.
- Other info: Join a supportive team focused on professional growth and student success.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 ÂŁ per year.
A specialist secondary school for pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN) in the Andover area is seeking to appoint committed and professional Learning Support Assistants to join its dedicated staff team. The school supports pupils aged 11–16 with a range of needs, including moderate learning difficulties (MLD), autism spectrum conditions, speech and communication needs, and associated social, emotional, and behavioural needs.
The school provides a structured, calm, and supportive learning environment, with a strong focus on academic development, emotional wellbeing, independence, and preparation for adulthood.
This role is suitable for individuals with previous experience working as a Learning Support Assistant, as well as candidates with relevant transferable experience from sectors such as care, youth work, mental health, behaviour support, residential care, or family support services. Prior experience within a school setting is not essential, as full training and ongoing support will be provided.
Key responsibilities:- Providing classroom-based and one-to-one support to secondary-aged pupils with additional learning and behavioural needs
- Supporting pupils’ communication, emotional regulation, engagement, and independence
- Assisting in the implementation of individual education plans and behaviour support strategies
- Working collaboratively with teaching staff, SEN professionals, and external agencies
- Contributing to the maintenance of a safe, structured, and positive learning environment
- Experience working with children or young people, or demonstrable transferable skills from relevant roles
- A calm, patient, and consistent approach to supporting learning and behaviour
- A genuine commitment to supporting pupils with autism and learning difficulties
- Strong reliability, resilience, and the ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team
- A supportive and collaborative working environment
- A specialist SEN setting focused on secondary-aged pupils and transition to adulthood
- Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
- Temporary-to-permanent roles with the potential for longer-term career progression
In line with safeguarding requirements, all applicants must hold an Enhanced DBS certificate for the Child Workforce registered on the Update Service, or be willing to apply for one. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking a rewarding and meaningful role supporting young people with additional needs within a specialist secondary school setting. All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance “Keeping Children Safe in Education”. We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
Special Needs Learning Support Assistant in Andover employer: Teaching Personnel
Contact Detail:
Teaching Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Special Needs Learning Support Assistant in Andover
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector or join local groups focused on SEN. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its approach to SEN. Show them you’re genuinely interested in their mission and how you can contribute to creating a supportive environment for pupils.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to supporting children with additional needs. We recommend using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals to join our team and make a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Special Needs Learning Support Assistant in Andover
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and skills that are relevant to the role of a Learning Support Assistant. We want to see how your background fits with supporting pupils with SEN, so don’t hold back on showcasing your strengths!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for working with young people shine through in your written application. We’re looking for candidates who genuinely care about making a difference in the lives of pupils with additional needs, so share your motivation and commitment!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching Personnel
✨Know Your SEN Stuff
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs (SEN). Understand the different types of needs you might encounter, like autism and MLD. This will show that you're genuinely interested in the role and ready to support the pupils effectively.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Whether you've worked directly with children or have transferable skills from other roles, be ready to share specific examples. Talk about situations where you've demonstrated patience, resilience, or teamwork. This helps the interviewers see how your background fits the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle specific situations, like supporting a pupil with emotional regulation. Think through your responses ahead of time, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly and effectively.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training opportunities or how the school supports its staff. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.