Location: Witham / Great Baddow, Essex (flexibility across both sites may be required)
Salary: £21,257.48–£25,000 per annum (term-time only)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Contract: Full-time, term-time only

Some children need more than help with their learning.

They need someone who takes the time to understand them, build trust and help them feel safe enough to explore their potential.

Parker Smith Inclusion is working in partnership with a specialist SEND setting across Witham and Great Baddow, looking for a compassionate and dedicated Learning Support Assistant to join their team.

The setting supports pupils with a range of additional needs, providing a therapeutic, nurturing environment where relationships come first and every child's progress is recognised.

This is an opportunity for someone who is patient, adaptable and passionate about helping children develop their confidence, communication, independence and life skills. Whether you're already experienced in SEND or looking to develop your skills in specialist education, the school offers a supportive environment where you can learn and make a genuine difference.

The Role

As a Learning Support Assistant, you'll work closely with teachers, therapists and other support staff to help pupils access learning in a way that works for them.

You may provide 1:1 support or work with small groups, adapting activities to meet individual needs and helping pupils navigate their school day. From supporting emotional regulation to celebrating a new skill or a small step towards independence, your role will be central to each child's development.

What You'll Be Doing

• Building positive, trusting relationships so pupils feel safe, understood and valued.

• Supporting engaging, accessible learning activities both in and outside the classroom.

• Helping pupils manage their emotions and behaviour through calm, consistent and nurturing approaches.

• Following individual learning plans, EHCP outcomes and support strategies.

• Encouraging communication, independence, confidence and social development.

• Supporting pupils with sensory needs and individual communication styles.

• Working collaboratively with teachers, therapists and colleagues to provide consistent support.

• Observing and sharing feedback on pupil progress, achievements and any challenges.

• Supporting daily routines and transitions to maintain a structured, reassuring environment.

• Supervising classes when required in the teacher's absence, in line with the school's arrangements.

Who We're Looking For

You don't need to be a qualified teacher. What's important is your attitude, willingness to learn and commitment to helping children thrive.

Ideally, you'll have:

• Experience supporting children or young people with SEND, or a strong interest in developing within specialist education.

• An understanding of social, emotional and behavioural needs.

• A patient, empathetic and resilient approach.

• Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships.

• The flexibility to adapt your approach to suit individual pupils.

• Confidence using IT to support learning and development.

• A positive, proactive attitude and a genuine desire to make a difference.

What's on Offer?

• A welcoming, supportive team that values collaboration and staff wellbeing.

• Ongoing training and professional development, including Thrive, safeguarding and Essex Steps.

• Term-time-only working to support a healthy work-life balance.

• Free uniform and optional free lunches.

• Company pension and free on-site parking.

• Private healthcare after one year of service.

• The opportunity to develop your skills and build a rewarding career in SEND.

Why Parker Smith Inclusion?

At Parker Smith Inclusion, SEND is genuinely all we do. We believe the right support starts with understanding the individual, their needs and the environment where they'll thrive.

We'll take the time to understand your experience, aspirations and what matters to you, helping you find an opportunity where you can grow professionally and make a meaningful difference.

Ready to take the next step?

If you're passionate about supporting children and want to be part of a setting where relationships, wellbeing and personalised learning come first, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today or contact Harry at Parker Smith Inclusion for an informal conversation about the role.