Learning Support Assistant, Manchester

Job Description

£450-£500 Weekly Pay (PAYE – No Umbrella Company)

New Directions are currently recruiting for a Special Needs Learning Support Assistant to work in a school based in Manchester, starting as soon as possible. This is a full-time, long-term role with the potential for a permanent position for the right candidate.

The School:

• Provides dedicated support for children with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, helping them to engage positively with learning, build emotional resilience, and develop appropriate coping strategies.
• Ofsted-rated ‘Good’ with Outstanding features, the school is recognised for its strong leadership, high-quality teaching, and commitment to pupil development.
• Delivers an inquiry-based and inclusive curriculum designed to meet the diverse needs of all learners, including those with additional and complex needs.

The Role:

• Full-time pupil support role providing targeted support to children within Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2), assisting with both academic and emotional development
• Use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools like PECs, Makaton, or communication boards for non-verbal or minimally verbal pupils.
• Support sensory regulation needs, including guiding pupils through sensory circuits, using sensory rooms, or implementing sensory breaks as advised by OT specialists.

The Candidate:

• Holding a Teaching Assistant qualification (or equivalent) is desirable but not essential.
• Experience working with children in a classroom setting is preferred; however, we also welcome applications from individuals with backgrounds in care, support work, sports coaching, or psychology.

New Directions Education Ltd is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.