At a Glance
- Tasks: Support learners with autism and learning difficulties in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join a dedicated team at a specialist SEN school in Colchester.
- Benefits: Enjoy term-time only hours, competitive pay, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with strong focus on staff wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Passion for supporting students; experience with additional needs is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 22607 - 22607 £ per year.
Location: Colchester, Essex
Salary: £22,607 per annum (term-time only, plus training days)
Contract: Permanent, Full-time (38.5 hours per week Monday to Friday), 39 weeks per annum (term time only) plus 3 days per annum during school holidays
Start Date: ASAP or September 2026
About the Role
Inspire EHC is proud to be working in partnership with a specialist SEN school in Colchester, Essex to recruit a dedicated Learning Support Assistant. This is an exciting opportunity to join a highly supportive setting that provides education for children and young people with autism and learning difficulties. The school offers a structured and nurturing environment with small class sizes, allowing staff to focus on delivering meaningful outcomes for learners and supporting their development both academically and personally.
As a Learning Support Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting learners in both individual and group settings, helping to build confidence, independence and key life skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide direct support to learners in class and during activities
- Support students on a 1:1 basis and in small groups
- Work closely with teachers to deliver engaging and personalised lessons
- Assist with Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and care plans
- Support communication, behaviour and emotional regulation
- Help prepare for lessons, school trips and educational visits
- Supervise learners during break times and lunchtime
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of each learner's development and needs
Requirements
- Experience working with children or young people with autism or learning disabilities (desirable)
- A genuine passion for supporting students with additional needs
- GCSE Maths and English (Grade C / 4 or above) or equivalent
- NVQ Level 3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning (desirable, not essential)
- A patient, resilient and proactive approach
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Driving licence (desirable)
- Right to work in the UK (no sponsorship available)
What Inspire EHC Offers
- Dedicated SEN specialist consultant support
- Competitive pay and long‑term career opportunities
- Access to CPD and training within SEN and autism support
- Opportunities for progression within specialist education settings
- A trusted partner to schools across the UK
Benefits of the Role
- Term‑time only working pattern for strong work/life balance
- Comprehensive training and ongoing professional development
- Staff wellbeing and mental health support
- Access to discounts and additional staff benefits
- A supportive leadership team and collaborative working environment
Safeguarding Statement
Inspire EHC and our partner school are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.
Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant. Job in Colchester LilyLifestyle Jobs employer: United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
Inspire EHC is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and supportive environment for Learning Support Assistants in Colchester. With a focus on professional development, competitive pay, and a strong commitment to staff wellbeing, employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children with autism and learning difficulties. The term-time only working pattern ensures a healthy work/life balance, making it an ideal place for those passionate about special educational needs.
Contact Details:
United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant. Job in Colchester LilyLifestyle Jobs
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work with SEN. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet or can give you a heads-up on what schools are looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its approach to SEN. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their values and how you can contribute to their supportive environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've supported students with additional needs in the past. This will demonstrate your commitment and understanding of 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 here to support you every step of the way in landing that perfect job!
We think you need these skills to ace Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant. Job in Colchester LilyLifestyle Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with children or young people with autism or learning disabilities. We want to see how your skills align with the role of a Learning Support Assistant, so don’t hold back!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting students with additional needs shine through in your application. We love to see candidates who are genuinely passionate about making a difference in the lives of learners.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:If you have GCSEs in Maths and English or an NVQ Level 3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning, make sure to mention them! These qualifications are desirable, and we want to know what you bring to the table.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get you on the path to joining our supportive team!
How to prepare for a job interview at United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
✨Know Your SEN Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge about special educational needs, particularly autism and learning difficulties. Familiarise yourself with common strategies used in the classroom to support these learners, as this will show your genuine passion and understanding during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported children or young people with additional needs. Whether it's a 1:1 situation or group activities, having concrete stories ready will help demonstrate your skills and commitment to the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the school's approach to supporting learners and how they implement Individual Support Plans. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Since you'll be working closely with teachers and other staff, highlight your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others in previous roles to create engaging lessons or support students effectively. This will reassure them that you're a team player who can contribute positively to their environment.
