About The School
This is a specialised, therapeutic special school dedicated to supporting pupils aged 4 – 16 with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and/or Autism. Their mission is to provide a safe, nurturing, and highly structured environment where young people can overcome barriers to learning, build resilience, and unlock their full potential. The school firmly believe that behaviour is communication, utilising restorative practices and trauma-informed approaches to help their pupils thrive.
The Role
As a Learning Support Assistant (LSA), you will be a vital mentor, a stabilising force, and a champion for the learners. You will work alongside class teachers, therapists, and SENDCos to deliver tailored support that aligns with the UK National Curriculum, adapted to meet the individual targets outlined in each pupil’s Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver 1:1 and small group interventions across core subjects like English and Maths, adapting National Curriculum tasks to match pupils’ abilities and sensory needs.
- Support EHCP outcomes, tracking and documenting progress toward individual social, emotional, and academic targets.
- De-escalate challenging behaviours using approved positive handling and emotional regulation frameworks (e.g., Team Teach or PROACT-SCIPr-UK).
- Build secure, trusting relationships with pupils, acting as a consistent, calm, and positive role model.
- Facilitate sensory and regulation breaks, helping pupils recognise triggers and use safe spaces effectively.
- Support social development during unstructured times, including break times, lunch, and off-site educational visits.
- Assist with access arrangements for pupils sitting functional skills, GCSEs, or alternative entry-level qualifications.
About You
We are seeking resilient, empathetic, and patient individuals who possess a deep understanding of neurodiversity and complex emotional needs.
Essential Criteria:
- Previous experience supporting children or young people, ideally within an SEND, SEMH, or ASD setting.
- Minimum GCSE Grade 4/C (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics.
- Exceptional patience, emotional resilience, and a non-judgmental approach to distressed behaviour.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
Desirable Criteria:
- Current Team Teach, MAPA, or equivalent positive behaviour support certification.
- Knowledge of the UK National Curriculum and experience delivering specific literacy or numeracy interventions.
- A background in youth work, psychology, sports coaching, or the creative arts.
What We Offer
- A highly supportive, collaborative, and inclusive staff team.
- Comprehensive induction and ongoing funded CPD, including accredited de-escalation training.
- Regular clinical supervision and staff wellbeing initiatives.
- Excellent career progression pathways into pastoral, therapeutic, or HLTA/Unqualified Teacher roles.
- Local Government or Teacher Pension Scheme, and school holidays off.