Special Needs Learning Support Assistant

Learning Support Assistant – Specialist SEN Secondary School

Location: Andover, Hampshire
Hours: Full-time, term time only
Pay: Competitive hourly rate | Temporary-to-permanent opportunities available

A specialist secondary school for pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN) in the Andover area is seeking to appoint committed and professional Learning Support Assistants to join its dedicated staff team. The school supports pupils aged 11–16 with a range of needs, including moderate learning difficulties (MLD), autism spectrum conditions, speech and communication needs, and associated social, emotional, and behavioural needs.

The school provides a structured, calm, and supportive learning environment, with a strong focus on academic development, emotional wellbeing, independence, and preparation for adulthood.

This role is suitable for individuals with previous experience working as a Learning Support Assistant, as well as candidates with relevant transferable experience from sectors such as care, youth work, mental health, behaviour support, residential care, or family support services. Prior experience within a school setting is not essential, as full training and ongoing support will be provided.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing classroom-based and one-to-one support to secondary-aged pupils with additional learning and behavioural needs

• Supporting pupils’ communication, emotional regulation, engagement, and independence

• Assisting in the implementation of individual education plans and behaviour support strategies

• Working collaboratively with teaching staff, SEN professionals, and external agencies

• Contributing to the maintenance of a safe, structured, and positive learning environment

Candidate requirements:

• Experience working with children or young people, or demonstrable transferable skills from relevant roles

• A calm, patient, and consistent approach to supporting learning and behaviour

• A genuine commitment to supporting pupils with autism and learning difficulties

• Strong reliability, resilience, and the ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team

What the school offers:

• A supportive and collaborative working environment

• A specialist SEN setting focused on secondary-aged pupils and transition to adulthood

• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities

• Temporary-to-permanent roles with the potential for longer-term career progression

Safeguarding

In line with safeguarding requirements, all applicants must hold an Enhanced DBS certificate for the Child Workforce registered on the Update Service, or be willing to apply for one.

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking a rewarding and meaningful role supporting young people with additional needs within a specialist secondary school setting.

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.
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