SEND Learning Support Assistant – Specialist SEND School

Job Title: SEND Learning Support Assistant (LSA)
Location: Benfleet, Essex
Start Date: ASAP
Contract Type: Temporary / Long-Term Opportunities
Salary: Competitive Daily Rate

Do you have experience supporting children and young people with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) or Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD)?

Are you confident supporting pupils with complex physical, sensory and communication needs, including providing personal care?

Are you a compassionate, patient and enthusiastic individual who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of children with additional needs?

TeacherActive is proud to be working with a well-established specialist SEND school based in Benfleet, Essex, supporting children and young people aged 3–19 with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and complex physical and sensory needs.

The school provides a nurturing, inclusive and highly supportive learning environment where every pupil is encouraged to develop their communication, independence, confidence and essential life skills. With a strong emphasis on individualised learning, sensory development and therapeutic support, the school is committed to helping every young person reach their full potential.

We are currently seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic SEND Learning Support Assistant (LSA) to join the school's experienced team. The successful candidate will work closely with teachers, therapists and other professionals to provide high-quality care, education and personalised support to pupils with a wide range of complex needs.

The Role

As a SEND Learning Support Assistant, your responsibilities will include:

• Providing 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with SLD, PMLD, autism and complex additional needs.
• Supporting children and young people aged 3–19 with their academic, physical, emotional and social development.
• Assisting teachers with delivering engaging, differentiated and sensory-based learning activities tailored to individual abilities.
• Supporting pupils who are non-verbal or have limited communication, using methods such as PECS, Makaton, visual aids and communication devices where appropriate.
• Providing personal care support, including toileting, feeding, changing and maintaining pupils' dignity, comfort and wellbeing.
• Assisting pupils with physical disabilities and mobility needs, including the safe use of specialist equipment and moving and handling procedures where trained.
• Supporting pupils with sensory processing difficulties through structured activities and individualised sensory programmes.
• Helping pupils develop independence, communication skills, confidence and essential daily living skills.
• Supporting pupils who may experience emotional dysregulation or display behaviours that challenge, using positive behaviour management and de-escalation strategies.
• Working alongside teachers, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists to implement individual support strategies.
• Supporting pupils with their Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) targets and monitoring their individual progress.
• Encouraging pupils to participate in classroom activities, outdoor learning, sensory sessions and enrichment opportunities.
• Maintaining a safe, inclusive and supportive environment while following all safeguarding and health and safety procedures.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

• Previous experience supporting children or young people with SEND, particularly SLD, PMLD, autism or complex physical disabilities.
• Confidence and willingness to provide personal care to pupils with additional needs.
• Experience supporting non-verbal pupils or those with significant communication difficulties.
• An understanding of alternative communication methods such as PECS, Makaton or AAC devices.
• Knowledge of sensory processing needs and strategies to support pupils with complex learning difficulties.
• Experience with moving and handling procedures or a willingness to undertake relevant training.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships with pupils, colleagues and families.
• A calm, patient, compassionate and resilient approach to supporting vulnerable young people.
• The ability to work collaboratively with teachers, therapists and other education professionals.
• A genuine passion for supporting children and young people with complex needs to achieve greater independence and positive outcomes.

Previous experience working within specialist SEND schools, residential care, healthcare, support work or similar environments would be highly desirable.

In Return for the Above, You Can Expect:

• A dedicated team of consultants available 24/7 to support you throughout your placement.
• Access to our industry-leading CPD courses and certificates through the My-Progression channel.
• Competitive rates of pay.
• TeacherActive Referral Scheme – receive a £100 Amazon voucher when you refer a friend (terms and conditions apply).
• PAYE payment, ensuring you are paid correctly with no hidden administration charges.
• Opportunities for long-term placements and career progression within specialist SEND education.

If you are a passionate SEND Learning Support Assistant who is committed to supporting children and young people with complex learning, physical and communication needs, we would love to hear from you!

To apply, please contact Rayia Kelynack on 01245 335 533 or email rayia.kelynack@teacheractive.com.

All applicants will be contacted to discuss suitability and then invited to register with TeacherActive.

Registration involves an enhanced DBS check, identity checks and the provision of good professional references. We pride ourselves on excellent service. We can provide a wide range of opportunities in schools and other educational institutions, with good rates of pay, at times to suit your needs.

TeacherActive is an equal opportunities employer and operates as an Employment Business in providing temporary or contract job-seeking services.