Specialist Complex Needs Learning Support Assistant - Southend

Temp to Perm

Date Posted: Tuesday 20 October 2026

, Ref: 14521

Specialist Complex Needs Learning Support Assistant

Location: Benfleet, Essex
Pay: £95–£105 per day PAYE (to be confirmed for this vacancy)
Job Type: Full-time, long-term opportunity
Setting: Specialist PMLD and Complex Needs School

Some pupils need a different kind of support. Could you be the person who makes the difference?

Parker Smith Inclusion is recruiting Learning Support Assistants for a specialist school in the Benfleet area, supporting children and young people aged 3–19 with profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD) and a range of complex needs.

Pupils may have significant communication, sensory, physical and learning needs, and some may require additional support with emotional regulation and challenging behaviour.

This role would suit someone who can remain calm under pressure, build trusting relationships and adapt their approach to help pupils feel safe and access their education.

About the role

You'll work closely with teachers and other support staff, providing individualised support throughout the school day.

Your responsibilities may include:

  • Providing 1:1 and small-group support.

  • Supporting pupils with complex learning and communication needs.

  • Helping pupils access classroom activities and develop independence.

  • Supporting emotional regulation and positive behaviour.

  • Following individual learning and behaviour support plans.

  • Building consistent, positive relationships with pupils.

  • Working alongside teachers and the wider support team.

  • Supporting personal care, including toileting, where required.

  • Following school guidance and appropriate safety procedures when behaviour becomes challenging.

  • Helping maintain a safe, supportive learning environment.

Who would suit this role?

Previous experience in a specialist SEND school or supporting pupils with PMLD, SLD or complex needs would be a strong advantage.

You might be an experienced Learning Support Assistant, SEND Teaching Assistant, Behaviour Mentor, care worker or support worker with relevant experience.

We're looking for someone who is:

  • Patient, reliable and resilient.

  • Comfortable supporting pupils with significant and complex needs.

  • Able to stay calm and consistent in challenging situations.

  • Confident building positive relationships.

  • Willing to support personal care where required.

  • A team player who is keen to learn and develop.

Experience with challenging behaviour and Team Teach or equivalent positive-handling training would be beneficial.

Why work with Parker Smith Inclusion?

We specialise exclusively in SEND recruitment, so we understand the importance of matching candidates to the right setting.

  • PAYE pay with transparent deductions.

  • No umbrella companies or hidden umbrella deductions.

  • Access to specialist SEND opportunities.

  • Personalised support and honest advice.

  • CV and interview guidance.

  • Ongoing support from your dedicated consultant.

  • More than 400 five-star Google reviews from educators.

If you're looking for a role where you can develop your specialist SEND experience and make a meaningful difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today to find out more about this opportunity in Benfleet.

Contact Danny at Parker Smith Inclusion

Phone: 0203 011 4848
Email: danny@psinclusion.co.uk

Not quite the right role? Apply to register your interest and we'll be in touch about other SEND opportunities.

Relevant keywords: Specialist Learning Support Assistant, SEND Teaching Assistant, SEN TA, PMLD, Complex Needs, Severe Learning Difficulties, Challenging Behaviour, Behaviour Support, Autism, Special Educational Needs, Personal Care, Benfleet, Essex.

 

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