At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with diverse needs and assist in creating a positive learning environment.
- Company: A well-regarded independent school in Andover, focused on nurturing students.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate of £13.75 and free child protection training.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience in care, education, or childcare is preferred.
- Other info: Temporary position with potential for permanent role; DBS check required.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Learning Support Assistant – Specialist SEN Secondary School
Location: Andover, Hampshire
Hours: Full-time | Term time
Pay: Competitive hourly rate | Temp-to-perm opportunities available
A specialist SEN secondary school in the Andover area is seeking dedicated and professional Learning Support Assistants to join its supportive team. The school works with pupils aged 11–16 who have a range of needs, including moderate learning difficulties (MLD), autism spectrum conditions, speech and communication needs, and associated social, emotional, and behavioural needs.
The setting provides a structured, calm, and nurturing environment designed to support pupils’ academic progress, emotional regulation, independence, and preparation for adulthood.
This role is well suited to individuals with previous experience as a Learning Support Assistant, as well as those with transferable experience from care, youth work, behaviour support, mental health, residential settings, family support, or other people-focused roles. Previous school-based experience is not essential, as full training and ongoing support will be provided.
Key responsibilities include:
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Providing in-class and one-to-one support to secondary-aged pupils with additional learning and behavioural needs
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Supporting pupils with engagement, emotional regulation, communication, and independence
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Assisting with the delivery of personalised learning and behaviour support plans
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Working collaboratively with teachers, SEN staff, and external professionals
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Helping to maintain a safe, structured, and positive learning environment
Candidate requirements:
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Experience working with young people, or relevant transferable skills
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A calm, patient, and consistent approach to behaviour and learning support
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A genuine interest in supporting adolescents with autism and learning difficulties
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Reliability, resilience, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team
Why join this setting:
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A welcoming and supportive staff team
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A specialist SEN environment focused on secondary-aged pupils and preparation for adulthood
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Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
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Temp-to-perm opportunities with potential for longer-term progression
Safeguarding
All applicants must hold an Enhanced DBS for the Child Workforce on the Update Service, or be willing to apply for one, in line with safeguarding requirements.
This is a rewarding opportunity for individuals looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people with additional needs within a specialist secondary setting.
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 Teaching Assistant employer: Teaching Personnel
Contact Detail:
Teaching Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education or care work. Let them know you're on the lookout for a SEN Teaching Assistant role. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local community events or workshops related to education and special needs. This not only boosts your CV but also helps you meet potential employers and showcase your passion for supporting children.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions specific to SEN roles. Think about scenarios where you've supported children with additional needs and how you handled them. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might be perfect for you. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on new roles as they come up.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in care work, education, or childcare. We want to see how your background aligns with the role of a Learning Support Assistant, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for supporting children with special educational needs and explain why you’re the perfect fit for our nurturing environment. Keep it personal and engaging!
Showcase Your Soft Skills: In this role, compassion and patience are key. Make sure to highlight any experiences that demonstrate your ability to support children emotionally and socially. We love seeing candidates who can foster independence and promote positive behaviour!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s quick and easy, and you’ll be one step closer to joining our fantastic team in Andover!
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching Personnel
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Learning Support Assistant inside out. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with additional requirements and think about how your past experiences in care or education can relate to this role.
✨Show Your Compassion
During the interview, demonstrate your passion for supporting children. Share personal stories or examples that highlight your empathy and dedication to helping others, especially in challenging situations. This will show them you’re not just qualified, but genuinely care.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, like managing behaviour or assisting with personal care. Think through potential scenarios beforehand and prepare clear, thoughtful responses that showcase your problem-solving skills and adaptability.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's approach to supporting children with diverse needs or how they foster a positive learning environment. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.