Learning Support Assistant

Job Description:

Smile Education are proud to be supporting a local special needs secondary school in Tamworth with the recruitment of a Learning Support Assistant. 

The school is a co-educational generic special school catering for pupils from Key Stage 3 through to Sixth Form (ages 11–19). All pupils have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and present with a wide range of learning needs, including learning difficulties and developmental delay. As such, staff are expected to adopt creative, flexible and pupil-centred approaches to learning and behaviour support.

The School Ethos The school strongly believes in lifelong learning, where both adults and young people continue to grow every day. Learning is viewed as a positive, rewarding and enjoyable experience, helping pupils to develop the skills, confidence and independence needed to lead happy and fulfilling lives.

The Role As a Learning Support Assistant, you will:

• Support students 1:1 and in small groups
• Follow the teacher’s lead and deliver pre-planned activities
• Assist pupils with their learning, engagement and emotional regulation
• Support with personal care, when required
• Help to de-escalate behavioural situations calmly and safely
• Play an active role in creating a positive, inclusive learning environment
• Fully immerse yourself in school life and daily routines

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

• Recent experience supporting students with SEND
• A relevant qualification (e.g. CACHE, Supporting Teaching & Learning, or equivalent)
• A sound understanding of SEND needs and strategies
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Confidence, patience and a positive attitude
• Flexibility around days and availability

Safeguarding & Compliance To be considered, you must:

• Hold an Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or be willing to apply for a new one through Smile Education
• Be able to provide a minimum of 2 years’ references, with at least one referencing your work with children
• Be available to attend an interview with Smile Education

Why Smile Education? Smile Education offers ongoing support, guidance and flexible working opportunities, placing you in schools where you can truly make a difference.

If you are passionate about supporting young people with SEND and want to be part of a nurturing and rewarding school environment, we would love to hear from you.

We are committed to safeguarding children. Each applicant will be expected to undertake compliance checks including Prohibited list, Barred list, DBS and Qualifications.