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- Tasks: Support young people with SEMH needs in a nurturing school environment.
- Company: Join a specialist school dedicated to helping excluded pupils thrive.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, ongoing training, and a supportive team atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: A passion for working with young people; experience is a plus but not essential.
- Other info: Term time only role with potential for permanent placement.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 22000 £ per year.
Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people who need it most? We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Learning Support Assistant to join one of our specialist Alternative Provision Secondary schools in Southampton. This school provides a nurturing and structured environment for pupils who have been excluded from mainstream education or who require additional support due to a range of social, emotional, and mental health needs.
About The School
This school supports pupils who are unable to access mainstream education, providing them with the skills, confidence, and motivation they need to re-engage with learning. We foster a positive, inclusive culture where every young person is valued and supported to achieve their potential, both academically and personally.
The Role
As a Learning Support Assistant, you will:
- Provide one-to-one and small group support tailored to individual pupil needs
- Help manage challenging behaviour using de-escalation strategies and positive reinforcement
- Assist with the planning and delivery of lessons under the guidance of teaching staff
- Support pupils in building social and emotional resilience
- Foster a safe, respectful, and encouraging learning environment
Hours & Pay
Term time only. School hours (Monday to Friday – Flexible days to work that suits you). Daily rate: £89.38.
What We’re Looking For
- A genuine interest in working with children and young people with SEMH (social emotional, mental health) needs
- Patience, empathy, and strong interpersonal skills
- Experience in a similar role or with vulnerable young people is desirable, but not essential
- A calm, confident, and consistent approach to supporting behaviour
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
Why Join?
- Make a real impact on young people’s lives
- Supportive and experienced team environment
- Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
- A rewarding and varied role where no two days are the same
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s 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 Learning Support Assisant employer: Teaching Personnel
Contact Detail:
Teaching Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Learning Support Assisant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with SEMH needs and strategies. Understanding the specific challenges faced by young people with social, emotional, and mental health needs will help you demonstrate your passion and suitability for the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the education sector. Attend local workshops or seminars related to special educational needs, as this can provide valuable insights and connections that may lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios. Be ready to share examples of how you've handled challenging behaviour or supported vulnerable individuals in the past, as this will showcase your experience and approach to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the school’s ethos and values. Understanding the specific environment and culture of the school will allow you to tailor your responses in interviews, showing that you are a good fit for their team.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Learning Support Assisant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the specific responsibilities and requirements of the Learning Support Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have experience working with children or young people, especially those with SEMH needs, make sure to emphasise this in your CV and cover letter. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to manage challenging behaviour and support emotional resilience.
Show Your Passion: In your application, convey your genuine interest in making a difference in the lives of young people. Share any personal motivations or experiences that have inspired you to pursue this role, as this can set you apart from other candidates.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread your CV and cover letter. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are well-structured and easy to read. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching Personnel
✨Show Your Passion for Supporting Young People
Make sure to express your genuine interest in working with children and young people, especially those with SEMH needs. Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you to make a difference in their lives.
✨Demonstrate Your Understanding of SEMH Needs
Be prepared to discuss what you know about social, emotional, and mental health challenges. Highlight any relevant strategies you've learned or used in the past to support students facing these issues.
✨Prepare for Behaviour Management Scenarios
Think about how you would handle challenging behaviour. Be ready to share examples of de-escalation techniques or positive reinforcement methods you might use to create a supportive learning environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask questions that show your interest in the school's approach to supporting pupils. Inquire about training opportunities or how they foster a positive culture within the school.