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- Tasks: Support a Reception pupil's learning and emotional wellbeing on a one-to-one basis.
- Company: Join the vibrant and inclusive community at Surbiton High School.
- Benefits: Flexible part-time hours, competitive salary, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child's early learning journey while working with experienced professionals.
- Qualifications: Patience, empathy, and experience with young children or additional needs are essential.
- Other info: Be part of a culturally diverse school committed to inclusion and safeguarding.
The predicted salary is between 18400 - 24500 ÂŁ per year.
Start Date: 20 April 2026
Salary: Pro‑rata, based on a full‑time equivalent salary of up to £30,766
Contract: Temporary, part‑time job share 13.5 to 20 hours per week, 36 weeks of the year.
Surbiton High School is a vibrant and inclusive community, committed to supporting every pupil to thrive academically and socially. We are seeking a caring, patient and enthusiastic One‑to‑One Learning Support Assistant to join our Boys’ Preparatory School and provide dedicated support to a pupil in Reception with additional needs. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference to a child’s early learning journey, working closely with experienced teachers and a multi‑disciplinary team in a nurturing school environment.
About the Role
In this role, you will work one‑to‑one with a pupil in Reception, supporting their learning, social development and emotional wellbeing under the guidance of the class teacher and the Head of Learning Support (SENDCO). You will also work closely with external professionals including a Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) and Occupational Therapist (OT). The pupil receives Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) support, and full training will be provided. The post is offered on a temporary, part‑time job‑share basis, with flexibility in working patterns. Options include: 2 or 3 full days per week (8:00am – 3:15pm), or 5 half days per week (mornings 8:30am – 12:00pm or afternoons 12:00pm – 3:15pm). Final arrangements will be discussed at interview.
What You’ll Do
- Provide consistent 1:1 support to meet the pupil’s educational, social and emotional needs
- Deliver tailored activities and interventions in line with agreed support plans
- Promote independence while offering reassurance, structure and positive reinforcement
- Support the pupil both in and out of the classroom, including during transitions and play
- Work closely with teachers and the Learning Support Department to ensure a consistent approach
- Assist educational and therapeutic professionals in delivering specialist programmes
- Observe, record and contribute to assessments of the pupil’s progress
- Support positive behaviour and emotional regulation in line with school policy
- Build strong, trusting relationships with the pupil, colleagues and parents
- Attend meetings and training as required and contribute to ongoing professional development
What We’re Looking For
- You will be someone who is patient, empathetic and enthusiastic, with a genuine interest in supporting young children
- Experienced in working with children, ideally within EYFS or with pupils with additional needs
- Confident supporting pupils with learning differences such as ASD, communication needs, sensory processing differences, anxiety or attention difficulties
- Knowledgeable (or keen to develop knowledge) of the SEND Code of Practice (0–25)
- An effective communicator with good organisational and ICT skills
- Able to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a multi‑disciplinary team
- Committed to safeguarding, confidentiality and professional integrity
- GCSE English and Maths (Grade C/4 or above)
- Demonstrable literacy and numeracy skills
- Committed to maintaining high standards across all School sites
Why join us?
At Surbiton High School, we pride ourselves on a vibrant community. You’ll play a key role in pupils’ daily experience, helping them feel safe, happy and ready to learn. If you are ready to contribute to this exceptional environment, we invite you to apply to become a part of Surbiton High School, where excellence meets passion. Surbiton High Boys’ Preparatory School and Surbiton High Girls’ Preparatory School are part of Surbiton High School. Surbiton High School is culturally diverse and fully committed to celebrating and respecting inclusion and diversity throughout our community. Surbiton High School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers, the Disclosure and Barring Service and online/social media searches. Please note that the School reserves the right to appoint at any stage during the recruitment process. For any queries relating to the role or your application, please email recruitment@surbitonhigh.com
One to One Learning Support Assistant (Reception) employer: The Independent Schools Council
Contact Detail:
The Independent Schools Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land One to One Learning Support Assistant (Reception)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education or support roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a recommendation that could give you the edge.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to supporting children with additional needs. We suggest role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've positively impacted a child's learning journey. This will help you stand out as someone who truly cares about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about joining our vibrant community.
We think you need these skills to ace One to One Learning Support Assistant (Reception)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a One-to-One Learning Support Assistant. We want to see how you can make a difference in a child's learning journey!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for supporting young children shine through in your written application. We love to see candidates who are genuinely excited about making a positive impact in our vibrant community.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to describe your experiences and qualifications, so we can easily 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 this rewarding opportunity at Surbiton High School.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a One-to-One Learning Support Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils in Reception and how you can support their learning and emotional wellbeing. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and suitability for the role.
✨Showcase Your Empathy and Patience
During the interview, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully supported children, especially those with additional needs. Highlight your patience and empathy, as these qualities are crucial for this role. Use specific anecdotes that illustrate your ability to build trusting relationships with young learners.
✨Familiarise Yourself with SEND Practices
Brush up on the SEND Code of Practice and any relevant strategies like Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). Being knowledgeable about these practices will show that you're committed to providing the best support possible. You might even want to mention any training or workshops you've attended related to special educational needs.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street, so think of insightful questions to ask your interviewers. Inquire about the school's approach to supporting pupils with additional needs or how they foster collaboration among staff. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.
