Job Description

The Learning Support Assistant (LSA) will play a

crucial, high-impact role

in a small, therapeutic-led learning environment. The primary focus is to support pupils aged 4-11 with

Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)

primarily linked to

Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs

.

The LSA will work as part of a high-ratio staff team to provide a nurturing, structured, and trauma-informed environment, helping pupils re-engage with education, regulate their emotions, and achieve their personal therapeutic and academic goals.

Key Responsibilities

1. Pupil Support and Therapeutic Engagement

Individualised Support:

Work one-on-one or with small groups of pupils to implement strategies outlined in their EHCPs and bespoke therapeutic plans (e.g., play therapy, communication plans).

Emotional Regulation:

Proactively employ de-escalation techniques, behaviour management strategies, and restorative practice in line with AP policy to support pupils experiencing dysregulation or challenging behaviour.

Trauma-Informed Care:

Maintain a consistent, calm, and predictable presence, actively contributing to the overall trauma-informed approach embedded across the provision.

Promoting Independence:

Encourage pupils to develop self-awareness, self-management skills, and positive coping strategies to reduce reliance on adult support.
2. Learning and Curriculum Support

Curriculum Access:

Help adapt and differentiate learning resources under the direction of the Class Teacher to ensure pupils with complex SEMH needs can access the adapted curriculum (literacy, numeracy, and life skills).

Progress Tracking:

Accurately record and provide detailed, regular feedback to the Class Teacher and therapeutic leads on pupil engagement, progress, challenges, and specific incident logs.

Resource Management:

Assist in preparing the learning environment, organising materials, and maintaining sensory and quiet spaces to meet the individual needs of the cohort.
3. Safeguarding and Environment

Safety and Welfare:

Be fully aware of, and strictly adhere to, the AP's policies and procedures relating to

Child Protection and Safeguarding

(KCSIE), Health & Safety, and confidentiality. Report all concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

Supervision:

Assist with the supervision of pupils during all structured and unstructured times, including break/lunch times, and when undertaking outdoor learning (e.g., Forest School activities).

Teamwork:

Attend and contribute actively to planning meetings, staff supervision sessions, and multi-disciplinary team reviews.
Person Specification

Category Essential Requirements Desirable Attributes Experience

Recent, proven experience supporting

children/young people with SEMH and/or SEND

in an educational or care setting. Experience working within an

Alternative Provision

or specialist provision for primary-aged pupils.

Knowledge

Sound understanding of child development, common barriers to learning (e.g., attachment difficulties, anxiety), and basic behaviour management strategies.Training in

Trauma-Informed Practice, Team Teach/De-escalation techniques

, or Restorative Practice.

Skills & Aptitude Exceptional emotional resilience, patience, and empathy

. Proven ability to remain calm and consistent during stressful or challenging situations.Competent in using ICT to support learning and maintain accurate pupil records.

Commitment

Demonstrable commitment to the

safeguarding and welfare of children

and willingness to undertake all mandatory training.

Working Pattern

Total Hours:

37.5 hours per week.

Schedule:

Term time only, in line with Lincolnshire County Council school term dates (195 working days, including 5 INSET days).

Flexibility:

The work pattern is flexible to cover the operational needs of the AP (e.g., shift patterns may include slightly earlier starts or later finishes to accommodate essential administrative/training duties before and after the pupil day). Exact daily hours will be agreed upon appointment.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 24,800.00 per year

Work Location: In person