SEMH Specialist Learning Support Assistant (LSA), KS3 to 5 Alternative Provision, Full-Time, City of Birmingham

Job Description

Job Title: Learning Support Assistant, SEMH Specialist

School Type: Alternative Provision (KS3-5)

Age Range of Pupils: 11 to 19 years

Location: Balsall Heath (B12)

Hours: Full-time, 32.5 hours, (8:30am-3:30pm, Monday to Friday)

Contract Type: Long-term, Temp

Start Date: November 2026

Make a Real Difference Where It Matters Most

We are seeking a resilient, compassionate and committed Learning Support Assistant to join our Key Stage 3, 4 and 5 Alternative Provision setting. This is a highly rewarding opportunity to support young people who have experienced significant challenges in their lives and require specialist support to achieve success both academically and personally.

Pupils present with a range of needs, including Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) difficulties, Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and ADHD. Many have experienced trauma, adverse childhood experiences and disrupted educational journeys, which can lead to highly challenging behaviours. We are looking for an individual who can build trusting relationships, remain calm under pressure and help pupils develop the skills and confidence needed to thrive.

The Role

As a Learning Support Assistant, you will work closely with teachers and other professionals to support pupils both in and out of the classroom. You will play a key role in helping young people engage positively with their education, regulate their emotions and achieve their individual targets.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting pupils with SEMH needs, Autism and ADHD across Key Stages 3, 4 and 5.
• Building positive, professional and therapeutic relationships with young people.
• Providing individual and small-group support to facilitate learning and personal development.
• Supporting pupils to regulate emotions and manage behaviour effectively.
• Assisting with the implementation of behaviour support plans and educational programmes.
• Promoting engagement, attendance and positive learning behaviours.
• Supporting pupils during periods of dysregulation and challenging behaviour using de-escalation techniques.
• Working collaboratively with teaching staff, therapists, families and external agencies.
• Helping to create a safe, nurturing and structured learning environment.

We Are Looking For Someone Who:

• Has experience working with young people with SEMH needs, Autism, ADHD or other additional needs.
• Is resilient, calm and confident when working with challenging behaviour.
• Understands the impact of trauma and adverse childhood experiences on behaviour and learning.
• Can build positive relationships while maintaining clear professional boundaries.
• Has excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Is adaptable, flexible and able to use their initiative.
• Has a genuine passion for supporting vulnerable young people.
• Can work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Has a positive, solution-focused approach to challenges.
• Relevant qualifications such as a Teaching Assistant or Learning Support qualification would be advantageous but are not essential.
• Has an enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or we can put one in place for you)
• Can provide two satisfactory references covering a minimum of two years

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