Learning Support Assistant, Alternative Provision, KS1 and KS2, Full-Time, City of Birmingham

Job Description

Job Title: Learning Support Assistant

School Type: Alternative Provision

Age Range of Pupils: 4 to 11 years (School age range 4 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

Supporting younger children with SEMH, Autism and ADHD requires warmth, consistency and the ability to help children feel safe, understood and ready to learn. This role is ideal for someone who is nurturing, patient and committed to helping children overcome barriers to their education and development.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Learning Support Assistant to join our team. Working alongside teachers and other professionals, you will support pupils aged 5-11 to access learning, develop emotional regulation skills and build positive relationships with peers and adults.

Many of our children can display behaviours that challenge due to their individual needs, communication differences and lived experiences. We are looking for someone who can remain calm, patient and consistent, whilst providing the structure, encouragement and emotional support our pupils need to succeed.

Key Responsibilities

• Support pupils on a one-to-one basis and in small groups across Key Stages 1 and 2.
• Develop positive, trusting and nurturing relationships with children.
• Assist pupils to engage with learning activities and achieve their individual targets.
• Support the implementation of individual education, behaviour and support plans.
• Help children develop social, emotional and communication skills.
• Use positive behaviour support and de-escalation strategies during periods of dysregulation.
• Encourage independence, confidence and resilience.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, families and external professionals.
• Support pupils during playtimes, educational visits and enrichment activities.
• Contribute to a safe, structured and inclusive learning environment where every child feels valued and supported.

What We Are Looking For

The successful candidate will:

• Have experience working with children with SEMH needs, Autism, ADHD or additional learning needs.
• Understand the importance of nurturing relationships and attachment-aware practice.
• Recognise that behaviour is a form of communication.
• Be calm, emotionally resilient and able to remain professional in challenging situations.
• Demonstrate patience, empathy and a child-centred approach.
• Have excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Be flexible, positive and willing to adapt to the changing needs of pupils.
• Be passionate about helping vulnerable children achieve positive outcomes.

Essential Requirements

• Experience working with primary-aged children in an educational, childcare, youth work or similar setting.
• Good literacy and numeracy skills.
• Ability to support children with emotional regulation and behaviours that challenge.
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
• The ability to build positive relationships with pupils, families and colleagues.
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or we can put one in place for you)
• Two satisfactory references covering a minimum of two years

Desirable Qualifications and Experience

• Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant, Childcare or relevant SEND qualification.
• Experience working within an alternative provision, specialist setting or primary school.
• Knowledge of Autism, ADHD and SEMH needs.
• Understanding of attachment, trauma-informed and nurture-based approaches.
• Training in Team Teach, MAPA, PRICE or other positive behaviour support programmes.
• Knowledge of child development and primary-age learning.

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