Learning Support Assistant

Writtle College is seeking a compassionate, proactive, and experienced Learning Support Assistant (LSA) to join our inclusive education team. This role involves supporting students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) across a diverse range of vocational and academic courses. Many of these learners have Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and are high needs funded, requiring tailored support to access learning and thrive in the college environment.

You'll work closely with teaching staff, the Learning Support Team and external professionals to ensure students receive high-quality, person-centred support that promotes independence, achievement, and wellbeing.

Key Responsibilities:

- Provide 1:1 and small group classroom support to students with SEND, including those with EHCPs and high needs funding
- Assist students in accessing lessons, practical activities, and enrichment opportunities across various departments
- Implement strategies and interventions outlined in EHCPs and support plans
- Promote independence, confidence, and self-advocacy in learners
- Support students with literacy, numeracy, study skills, and emotional regulation
- Contribute to the development of inclusive teaching practices and differentiated learning materials
- Monitor and record student progress, providing feedback to teaching staff and the SEND team
- Support students during transitions, including arrival, breaks, and departure from college
- Assist with personal care and mobility needs where required, in line with college policies
- Maintain confidentiality and uphold safeguarding, health & safety, and equality policies
- Support students in both classroom settings and on a one-to-one basis, adapting materials and communication methods to meet individual academic and pastoral needs

Essential Requirements:

- Ability to build positive, respectful relationships with students and staff
- Strong communication and organisational skills
- Commitment to promoting inclusion and celebrating diversity
- Flexibility and resilience in a dynamic learning environment
- Minimum of grade C/4 or equivalent grade in English and Maths
- Two A levels or vocational qualification at NVQ level 3 or equivalent

Desirable Requirements:

- Previous experience supporting young people with SEND in an educational setting
- Understanding of EHCPs and the responsibilities of colleges in delivering support
- Relevant qualifications (e.g. Level 2/3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning, Autism Awareness, etc)
- Experience supporting students with complex needs, including autism, ADHD, and physical disabilities
- Knowledge of assistive technologies and inclusive learning strategies
- Knowledge of IT systems

Benefits:

ARU offers an agile working culture and an extensive range of benefits including generous holiday entitlement, occupational pension schemes, training and development opportunities, travel to work scheme and a competitive relocation package.

All appointments at ARU Writtle are subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks, including a satisfactory Enhanced criminal records with Children's Barred List check through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). This role is considered exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

Informal enquiries can be made to Caroline Turner, Learning Support Team Leader, at [email protected]