At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with autism in a dynamic learning environment.
- Company: Bridgwater College Academy, committed to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Generous pension scheme, wellbeing centre, and high-street discounts.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with children with ASC and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 20533 - 20533 £ per year.
Part time - 33.75 hours per week, 39 weeks per year (term time plus 2 INSET days and some Twilight sessions)
Working hours: 8:05am to 3:20pm (with 30 minute unpaid lunch break) Monday to Friday
Salary: Band 5, Points 7-9. Actual starting salary: £20,533.38 per annum
Anticipated start date: September 2026
Bridgwater College Academy is seeking to appoint a skilled and enthusiastic Learning Support Assistant to join our ASC Polden Centre Team, working predominantly within Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone passionate about supporting young people with autism and committed to inclusive education.
The successful candidate will work within the specialist ASC base as well as supporting students in mainstream classes. You will help individual students and small groups to engage positively with learning, promote constructive behaviour, and will be supported to deliver tailored SEND interventions within our specialist provision.
To be considered for this role, you should:
- Have proven experience working with children with ASC, language and communication needs, or other SEND
- Have a genuine desire to understand and support the needs of students with autism
- Demonstrate a calm, positive approach and be a clear, confident communicator
- Be able to develop and maintain trusting, professional relationships with students and staff
This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a dedicated and inclusive team within our ASC base, making a meaningful difference to the educational experience of our students.
What We Offer
- Employee reward scheme including high-street discounts and a staff wellbeing centre
- Generous local government pension scheme
- On site parking
Applications will be considered as they are received, and early submission is strongly encouraged. We reserve the right to appoint before the closing date should a suitable candidate be identified.
Closing Date for applications: Sunday 7th June 2026 at 11:59pm
We believe in hiring for potential and this means that we value individuals for the knowledge skills and experience that they have developed in every aspect of their lives. If you don’t feel that you meet all of the criteria listed in the person specification, we would still encourage you to apply.
We care about our staff and provide a number of benefits in addition to salary including a positive and supportive working environment, employer pension contribution of at least 19%, generous annual leave entitlement for all-year round staff, on-site gyms, free parking, access to a retail discounts platform and Employee Assistance Programme. Helping you achieve a good work life balance is important to us. Lots of our colleagues work flexibly including part time hours and/or job shares and we are happy to discuss these opportunities with you.
We truly believe that diversity of thought, culture, background and perspective secure the best outcomes for our students. We strive to build teams that represent our local communities and welcome applications from individuals who identify as members of an under-represented group and in particular individuals who identify as BAME, disabled or LGBT. We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share its commitment. Our mission is that all children achieve. This post is exempt from Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974). A comprehensive screening process will be undertaken on all applicants, which will include a check with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Learning Support Assistant - Part Time in Bridgwater employer: Workcircle
Bridgwater College Academy is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its staff, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment. With benefits such as a generous pension scheme, employee reward programmes, and flexible working options, we are committed to helping our team achieve a healthy work-life balance while making a meaningful impact on the lives of students with autism. Join us in fostering a diverse community where every individual is valued and empowered to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Support Assistant - Part Time in Bridgwater
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Bridgwater College Academy. Check out their website and social media to understand their values and what they’re all about. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Grab a friend or family member and do some mock interviews. Focus on common questions for Learning Support Assistants, especially those related to supporting students with autism. The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll perform when it counts!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! During the interview, share specific examples of how you’ve supported students with SEND in the past. Whether it’s a success story or a challenge you overcame, let your enthusiasm for helping young people shine through.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that shows you’re keen and professional. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision!
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Assistant - Part Time in Bridgwater
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting young people with autism shine through. We want to see that genuine desire to make a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have working with children with ASC or other SEND needs. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we're looking for, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Confident:Your written application should reflect a calm and positive approach. Use clear language and confident statements to communicate your skills and how you can contribute to our team.
Apply Early!:We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible. We review applications on a rolling basis, so the sooner you apply through our website, the better your chances!
How to prepare for a job interview at Workcircle
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Learning Support Assistant and the specific needs of students with autism. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description, such as supporting students in mainstream classes and delivering tailored SEND interventions.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, express your genuine desire to support young people with autism. Share any relevant experiences you've had working with children with ASC or other SEND, and highlight how these experiences have shaped your approach to inclusive education.
✨Communicate Clearly
As a Learning Support Assistant, clear communication is key. Practice articulating your thoughts and experiences confidently. Use examples that demonstrate your ability to build trusting relationships with students and staff, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of the interview. This shows your interest in the role and the organisation. You might want to ask about the training opportunities available for staff or how the team collaborates to support students effectively.
