SEND Learning Support Assistant – Specialist SEND School

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

Do you have experience supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)?

Are you confident supporting pupils with Moderate Learning Difficulties (MLD), Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Are you a patient, compassionate and enthusiastic individual who is passionate about helping young people overcome barriers to learning?

TeacherActive is proud to be working with a specialist independent SEND school based in Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex, supporting children and young people aged 8–18 with a range of additional learning needs, including Moderate Learning Difficulties (MLD), Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), autism and associated social, emotional and behavioural needs.

The school provides a nurturing, therapeutic and highly personalised learning environment, with small class sizes and a strong focus on each pupil's individual development. Pupils benefit from tailored education programmes, specialist support and a curriculum designed to promote academic achievement, emotional wellbeing, independence and essential life skills.

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

The Role

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

• Providing 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with MLD, SLD, autism and additional learning needs.
• Supporting children and young people aged 8–18 with their academic, emotional, social and personal development.
• Assisting teachers in delivering differentiated and engaging learning activities tailored to pupils' individual abilities.
• Supporting pupils who may experience communication difficulties, sensory processing differences and emotional dysregulation.
• Using positive behaviour management strategies and appropriate de-escalation techniques to support pupils displaying challenging behaviour.
• Helping pupils develop independence, confidence, communication skills and practical life skills.
• Supporting pupils with individual Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) targets and personal development goals.
• Using visual aids, structured routines and alternative communication strategies to support learning and engagement.
• Building positive, trusting relationships with pupils who may have experienced previous difficulties within mainstream education.
• Encouraging pupils to participate in classroom activities, therapeutic interventions and enrichment opportunities.
• Working collaboratively with teachers and other professionals to create a safe, inclusive and supportive educational environment.
• Following safeguarding procedures and promoting the welfare and wellbeing of all pupils.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

• Previous experience supporting children or young people with SEND, particularly MLD, SLD or autism.
• An understanding of different learning needs and the ability to adapt support accordingly.
• Experience supporting pupils with communication difficulties, sensory needs or challenging behaviour.
• A calm, patient and empathetic approach to working with vulnerable young people.
• Confidence implementing positive behaviour management and emotional regulation strategies.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build meaningful relationships with pupils and colleagues.
• An understanding of EHCPs and individualised learning programmes.
• The ability to encourage independence while providing appropriate levels of support.
• A flexible, proactive and resilient attitude.
• A genuine passion for supporting young people with additional needs to achieve their full potential.

Previous experience in specialist SEND schools, alternative provisions, residential care or support work 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 making a positive difference in the lives of children and young people with additional 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.