The posting
Scope of Job
The postholder will work collaboratively within a classroom environment, supporting classes of varying sizes and pupil needs. The role requires an awareness of, and commitment to, maintaining health and safety standards at all times.
Duties may involve the safe movement and handling of educational resources, classroom furniture, and equipment in accordance with school procedures.
The postholder will be expected to work flexibly within a dynamic and often busy school environment, responding effectively to the diverse needs of pupils.
As part of supporting pupils' academic, social, emotional and behavioural development, the role can be emotionally demanding and requires resilience, empathy and professionalism.
The postholder will also have access to sensitive and confidential information and is expected to maintain the highest standards of confidentiality and data protection in line with school policies and statutory requirements.
Position Within Unit Structure
The postholder is accountable to the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO).
The postholder will be responsible for delivering planned interventions to individuals and small groups, as directed by the Class Teacher and/or SENCO. This will include implementing targeted support programmes, monitoring pupil engagement and progress, maintaining accurate records, and providing feedback to inform future planning and provision.
The Learning Support Assistant will play a key role in ensuring that all pupils, including those with SEND, are able to access the curriculum and achieve their full potential.
Within the classroom setting, the Learning Support Assistant will work under the professional direction and supervision of the Teacher, contributing to the effective delivery of teaching and learning and supporting the academic, social, emotional and behavioural development of pupils.
Knowledge, Skills & Experience
- Basic level of literacy and numeracy.
- At least 2 years' experience of working with/interacting with children.
- LSA training.
- Preferably experience in delivering support as an ELSA.
- Preferably has attended training in programmes such as ALS, ELS, PAT, Springboard, IEPs and areas of special educational needs.
- Ability to relate sympathetically to children.
- Understanding of the educational objectives of the school.
- First Aid training.
- Commitment to training and professional development.
- Understanding of safeguarding in a school environment.
Job Accountabilities
- Under the direction of the SENCO and teacher, provide support to individual children and small groups in a wide range of learning activities including reading, writing and mathematics.
- Support the delivery of structured programmes such as Early Literacy Support (ELS), Additional Literacy Support (ALS), Springboard, Booster, PAT and Individual Education Plans (Pupil Passports).
- Facilitate children's independent learning through explanation and encouragement.
- Reinforce standards of behaviour set by the classroom teacher and the school's behaviour policy.
- Assist in preparing the teaching room and resources for learning activities.
- Assist with assessments and monitoring pupil progress.
- Undertake First Aid duties in line with training received and the school's accident and incident policy.
- Carry out duties in accordance with Health & Safety regulations and report hazards immediately where necessary.
If Working With a Child With an EHCP
- Provide one-to-one support in line with agreed plans, including occupational therapy and speech therapy programmes.
- Support pupils in achieving learning objectives and completing tasks.
- Work with small groups that may include a child with special educational needs.
- Contribute to the child's pupil passport and work alongside other professionals to meet identified needs.
