At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teachers in creating an engaging learning environment for pupils with special educational needs.
- Company: Join Birtenshaw, a dedicated organisation transforming the lives of disabled individuals.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, paid training, and opportunities for overtime and career advancement.
- Other info: Full-time role with term-time hours and additional responsibilities available for extra pay.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive and energetic team.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed; training provided, but NVQ completion is required within two years.
The predicted salary is between 20700 - 21400 £ per year.
Learning Support Assistant / Teaching Assistant (SEND)
September 2026 start date
The Birtenshaw Group is looking to recruit a number of dedicated and enthusiastic, Teaching Assistants / Learning Support Assistants to support the teachers in creating a learning environment that stimulates and encourages the best possible progress and the highest possible attainment for all pupils.
The School:
The physical environment is of vital consideration when setting the climate for learning. The buildings are airy and spacious and provide a calm and safe environment in which pupils can thrive.
The extensive facilities include: sensory soft play rooms, multi-sensory rooms with immersive technology, sensory integration room, rebound therapy room and two hydrotherapy pools with multi-sensory sound and light system..
Class sizes are small, on average 8 to 10 pupils. Each class is led by a suitably qualified teacher with experience of meeting the complex needs of pupils, who is supported by a dedicated team of Teaching Assistants in order to maintain routines and consistent approaches.
Please Note: To be considered for this role you must be able to support pupils in all therapy and curriculum activities including but not limited to swimming pool and sports activities.
Hours of work:
Term Time contract
38.5 hours per week (x 38 weeks) plus 2 training weeks of 37 hours, totalling 1565.5 hours paid for inclusive of annual leave.
Full Time contract
Please be aware that this contract option is not a term time only position. You will be paid for 37 hours per week during each 12 month period inclusive of annual leave.
The core hours of work during term time (38 weeks) are 38.5 per week (8.30 am until 4.00 pm, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; 8.30 am until 5.00 pm on a Wednesday) plus 2 training weeks at 37 hours.
Additional hours must be worked outside of school term time or by assisting with transport runs before and/or after school hours.
Salary: £25,816 - £26,682 per annum, pro rata (£13.38 - £13.83 per hour) plus the opportunity to earn an additional £1650 per annum for additional responsibilities.
Training:
Staff will receive all the training they require to fulfil their role. Training takes place during weekdays and staff must be available to attend introductory mandatory training and refresher training as required. Training dates are issued in advance.
Why work for Birtenshaw?
The Birtenshaw staff team is highly committed and dedicated to transforming the lives of disabled people. You will be working with colleagues who are resilient, energetic, caring and who enjoy their roles.
There are clear career opportunities for advancement within a growing organisation which puts the service users at the heart of all we do.
In addition you can expect:
- Competitive pay scale with opportunities for additional overtime
- Pay increase on completion of relevant qualification or if already have a relevant qualification upon completion of probationary period
- Additional payments for additional responsibilities up to £1650 per annum
- Staff Recognition Schemes – employee of the month, refer a friend, long service plus nominations for national awards
- Staff Council – a forum in which staff from all sections of the organisation can suggest and initiate change
- Salary Protection Scheme in the event of longer-term absence from work due to illness or injury (contracted staff)
- Employee Assistance Programme – access to a 24-hour advice line offering support on a range of life and work, money and family issues and 24 hour medical support including online GP appointments, physiotherapy and mental health support and counselling (contracted staff)
- Discount schemes for local and national shops and services
- Free Enhanced DBS check
- BPTAA - Birtenshaw school Bolton has been awarded the 'Best Practice with Teaching Assistants' award.
Closing Date: 20/07/2026 at 9am
All employees are required to commit to implementing Birtenshaw Group policies and procedures to ensure the health, safety and general welfare of children and adults
The Birtenshaw Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all service users and expects all employees to share and uphold this commitment.
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, this means that any potential employee is still required to disclose what would normally be considered a “spent” conviction.
An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required. Information provided by you or the DBS will be dealt with in confidence and in accordance with the DBS Code of Practice which can be viewed via DBS website.
All offers of employment are made subject to safeguarding / pre-employment checks including satisfactory references, pre-employment medical, proof of right to work in the UK in accordance with the Asylum and Immigration Act 1996 and other pre-employment checks where applicable.
Please note that we are unable to provide sponsorship at this time.
Learning Support Assistant in Bolton employer: The Birtenshaw Group
Birtenshaw is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for our Passenger Escorts. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, we offer comprehensive support services, recognition schemes, and clear pathways for career advancement, all while ensuring that our staff play a vital role in the lives of young people with special educational needs. Located in a community-focused setting, our team thrives on collaboration and shared values, making it a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Support Assistant in Bolton
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). Understanding their requirements will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in supporting them effectively.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have in educational settings, particularly with small class sizes or in roles that involve direct support to students. This can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss how you would contribute to creating a positive learning environment. Think about specific strategies or activities you could implement to engage pupils and support their learning.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former staff members if possible. They can provide insights into the role and the organisation, which can be invaluable during your application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Assistant in Bolton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Learning Support Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils and the environment they will be learning in.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise any previous work with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) and your ability to support therapy and curriculum activities.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for supporting disabled individuals and your commitment to creating a positive learning environment. Mention specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Highlight Training and Qualifications:If you have any relevant qualifications or training, such as NVQs or experience in similar roles, make sure to mention these in your application. This shows your dedication to professional development and readiness for the position.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Birtenshaw Group
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Learning Support Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils, especially those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This will help you demonstrate your commitment and suitability during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Passion
Express your enthusiasm for working with children and supporting their learning. Share personal experiences or anecdotes that highlight your dedication to helping others, particularly in an educational setting. This can make a strong impression on the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Be ready to discuss how you would handle various situations that may arise in the classroom, such as managing challenging behaviour or supporting a child during therapy activities. Think through examples that showcase your problem-solving skills and adaptability.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the training opportunities available, the team dynamics, or how success is measured in the role. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
