Learning Support Assistant (SEN)

Learning Support Assistants - September 2026 Start

Location: Andover, Hampshire
Hours: Monday-Friday, Term Time Only
Pay: £14.25 per hour

We are currently recruiting Learning Support Assistants to join two specialist schools in the Andover area from September 2026. These provisions support pupils with a range of additional needs, including Special Educational Needs (SEN), autism, complex learning difficulties, and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.

Both schools provide structured, supportive, and nurturing environments where pupils are encouraged to achieve academically, develop socially and emotionally, and build confidence and independence. This is a rewarding opportunity for individuals who are passionate about making a positive difference in young people's lives.

As a Learning Support Assistant, you will play a key role in supporting pupils both inside and outside of the classroom. Working closely with teachers, pastoral teams, and other professionals, you will help create a positive and consistent learning environment where pupils feel safe, supported, and able to succeed.

Responsibilities will include:

• Supporting pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small group activities

• Assisting teachers with lesson delivery and classroom preparation

• Adapting learning materials to meet individual pupil needs

• Encouraging engagement, participation, and positive learning behaviours

• Supporting the development of communication, social, and life skills

• Assisting pupils with emotional regulation and behaviour support strategies

• Helping to maintain a calm, safe, and structured classroom environment

• Building positive and professional relationships with pupils

• Working collaboratively with teaching staff, therapists, and pastoral teams

• Supporting pupils during transitions, breaktimes, and enrichment activities where required

The SEN provisions focus heavily on structure, communication, sensory support, and routine, while the SEMH settings place greater emphasis on emotional regulation, relationship-building, consistency, and positive role modelling.

We welcome applications from candidates with a range of professional backgrounds, including:

• Education and schools

• Care and support work

• Youth work and mentoring

• Mental health and wellbeing services

• Sports coaching and activity leadership

• Residential care

• Customer-facing or community-based roles

Previous experience in SEN or SEMH settings is beneficial but not essential. Full training and ongoing support will be provided for the right candidates.

Successful applicants will demonstrate:

• Patience, empathy, and resilience

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• A calm, consistent, and proactive approach

• Ability to build positive relationships with young people

• Interest in supporting pupils with additional needs

• Flexibility and willingness to learn

• Ability to work effectively as part of a team

• Full-time, term-time only working pattern

• Ongoing training and professional development

• Supportive and experienced school teams

• Valuable experience within specialist education settings

• Opportunity to make a genuine difference to pupils' development and wellbeing

• Long-term career progression opportunities within education and SEN support

All applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and relevant safeguarding checks.

To apply, please submit an up-to-date CV for consideration.

All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ's on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
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