At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with Special Educational Needs in a nurturing school environment.
- Company: Welcoming school in Basildon dedicated to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, supportive team, and meaningful impact on students' lives.
- Other info: Long-term role with potential for permanent position and free training provided.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's educational journeys every day.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEND and strong communication skills are essential.
We are currently seeking a dedicated and compassionate SEN Learning Support Assistant (LSA) to join a welcoming and supportive school setting in Basildon. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone passionate about supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and making a genuine difference to their educational journey and personal development.
The successful candidate will work closely with pupils on a 1:1 basis as well as within small group settings, supporting children with a range of additional needs including ASD, ADHD, SEMH, speech and language needs, and other learning difficulties. You will play an important role in helping pupils access learning, build confidence, and develop positive relationships within the classroom environment.
Role Details
- Location: Basildon
- Position: SEN Learning Support Assistant (LSA)
- Start Date: September 2026 (potential for an earlier start)
- Hours: 8:30am – 3:30pm
- Days: Monday to Friday
- Pay: £90 – £110 per day (depending on experience and suitability)
- Contract: Long-term with potential to become permanent
While part-time applications may be considered, consistency for the children is extremely important, therefore candidates who are available 5 days per week are highly desirable.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide tailored support to pupils with SEND on a 1:1 basis and in small groups
- Work collaboratively with the class teacher, SENCO, and wider school staff
- Support learning activities in line with EHCPs, behaviour strategies, and individual care plans
- Encourage engagement, independence, confidence, and positive behaviour
- Adapt communication and support methods to meet individual pupil needs
- Help create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment
- Monitor pupil progress and provide feedback to teaching staff where appropriate
The Ideal Candidate Will Have
- Previous experience working with children with SEND in a school, care, or support setting
- A calm, patient, and proactive approach
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- The ability to build positive relationships with children and staff
- A genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs
- Flexibility, resilience, and a positive attitude
Safeguarding Requirements
An enhanced DBS check is required for this role. Candidates who already hold a DBS on the Update Service are encouraged to apply, although applicants willing to apply for a new DBS will also be considered.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a supportive school environment where your work will have a meaningful impact every single day. Whether you are an experienced SEN LSA or looking to further develop your career within SEND education, we would love to hear from you.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQs on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
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’; this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
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.
For details of our privacy policy, please visit the Teaching Personnel website.
SEN LSA in Pitsea employer: Teaching Personnel
Teaching Personnel is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and inclusive environment for SEN Learning Support Assistants in Basildon. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from free training opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful impact on children's lives every day. The supportive work culture fosters collaboration among staff, ensuring that you are part of a dedicated team focused on enhancing the educational journey of pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN LSA in Pitsea
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, join relevant groups on social media, and attend local events. 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 values. Think about how your experience aligns with their mission to support children with SEND. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to working with children with additional needs. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your skills and passion for the role.
✨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 dedicated individuals like you to join our team and make a real impact in the lives of children.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN LSA in Pitsea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting children with SEND shine through. Share personal experiences or motivations that drive you to make a difference in their educational journey.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of SEN LSA. Highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description, like working 1:1 with pupils or adapting communication methods.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon, making it easy for us to see how you fit the role. Remember, we want to understand your qualifications without wading through unnecessary fluff!
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 rewarding opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching Personnel
✨Know Your SEN Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Familiarise yourself with different conditions like ASD, ADHD, and SEMH. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're genuinely passionate about supporting children with additional needs.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported children with SEND. Whether it’s a particular strategy you used or a moment when you made a difference, having these stories ready will help you stand out as a candidate who truly understands the role.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Collaboration is key in this role, so be ready to talk about how you work with teachers, SENCOs, and other staff. Share examples of how you've contributed to a team environment and supported your colleagues in achieving the best outcomes for students.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's approach to supporting SEND students or how they foster a nurturing environment. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.