SEN Learning support assistant

Learning Support Assistant (LSA) – Specialist SEN School (Primary & Secondary)

Location: Farnborough
Hours: Full-time
Pay: £14.25 per hour

About the School Environment

This specialist setting provides a highly supportive and structured environment for children and young people aged 4–16 with a range of additional needs. The school is purpose-built to support pupils who require a more tailored and nurturing approach than mainstream education can offer.

Class sizes are small, allowing for a high staff-to-pupil ratio and a personalised approach to learning. The school day is carefully structured, balancing academic development with communication, life skills, and emotional regulation. Facilities are designed to support sensory needs, including calm spaces and adapted learning environments.

The team works collaboratively to create a safe, predictable, and encouraging atmosphere where every child is supported to reach their individual potential.

Understanding the Needs of the Pupils

Pupils at the school have a range of complex needs, including:

• Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)

• Moderate to severe learning difficulties

• Speech, language, and communication needs

• Sensory processing differences

• Social, emotional, and mental health needs

Many pupils benefit from clear routines, visual supports, and consistent adult guidance. Some may experience challenges with communication or behaviour, particularly when feeling overwhelmed or anxious.

As an LSA, you will play a key role in helping pupils feel safe, understood, and ready to learn. Progress may look different for each child - from developing communication skills to building independence or managing emotions - and every small achievement is meaningful.

The Role

As a Learning Support Assistant, you will work closely with teachers and other support staff to provide high-quality, personalised support throughout the school day.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting pupils on a 1:1 basis or in small groups

• Assisting with tailored learning activities across a range of subjects

• Helping pupils develop communication and social interaction skills

• Supporting emotional regulation and promoting positive behaviour strategies

• Encouraging independence in both learning and daily routines

• Assisting with transitions throughout the school day

• Contributing to a calm, structured, and engaging learning environment

You may also support pupils during break times, lunchtime, and enrichment activities, helping to build confidence and positive relationships.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for individuals who are:

• Patient, empathetic, and resilient

• Able to remain calm and consistent in a variety of situations

• Genuinely interested in supporting children with additional needs

• Flexible and willing to adapt to individual pupil needs

• Strong team players with good communication skills

Experience in SEN, education, care, youth work, or similar settings is beneficial, but not essential. A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and a commitment to making a difference are just as important.

Training and Development

Full training and ongoing support will be provided. This may include:

• Understanding autism and communication needs

• Behaviour support strategies

• Safeguarding and wellbeing training

• Practical classroom support techniques

This role offers an excellent opportunity to build experience in a specialist education setting and develop valuable skills for future careers in education, psychology, therapy, or care.

What’s on Offer

• Full-time, ongoing position

• Competitive hourly rate of £14.25

• Supportive and welcoming staff team

• Opportunities for professional development

• A rewarding role where you can make a genuine impact every day

Why This Role Matters

Working in a specialist SEN setting is both challenging and deeply rewarding. You will be supporting children and young people who rely on consistency, understanding, and encouragement to navigate their education and daily lives.

Your role will help pupils build confidence, develop key life skills, and experience success in ways that are meaningful to them.

Apply with your up-to-date CV to be considered.

All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
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