Learning Support Assistant

Job Purpose

The Learning Support Assistant (LSA) plays a key role in supporting students with additional learning needs to access the curriculum, achieve their individual learning goals, and participate fully in school life. Working under the direction of the Class Teacher and Head of Inclusion, the LSA provides targeted academic, social, emotional, and behavioural support, helping to create an inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.

The LSA is expected to contribute positively to the ethos of the school, uphold GEMS Core Values, and maintain the highest standards of professionalism, safeguarding, and student wellbeing.

Key Responsibilities

Support for Teaching and Learning

• Work collaboratively with the Class Teacher and Inclusion Team to support students with identified learning needs in accessing the curriculum.
• Assist in the preparation and organisation of learning materials and resources to support planned lessons and interventions.
• Deliver structured learning activities and interventions under the guidance of the teacher and Inclusion Team.
• Adapt support strategies in response to students’ individual learning, behavioural, and emotional needs.
• Reinforce learning objectives and encourage students to develop independence, confidence, and resilience.
• Monitor student participation, engagement, and progress, providing regular feedback to teachers and the Inclusion Team.
• Support the implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEPs), Student Support Plans, and intervention programmes.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress, support provided, and achievement against agreed targets.
• Assist with classroom assessments, routine testing, examinations, and the marking of work as directed by the teacher.
• Accompany and support students during educational visits, enrichment activities, and school events as required.

Student Support and Wellbeing

• Foster positive relationships with students and promote their wellbeing, self-esteem, and social development.
• Support students in developing positive learning behaviours and independence.
• Encourage active participation in lessons and wider school activities.
• Assist students with organisation, communication, and social interaction skills where appropriate.
• Promote inclusion and ensure students have equal access to learning opportunities.
• Recognise and report concerns regarding student welfare, safeguarding, attendance, or wellbeing promptly and appropriately.

Communication and Partnership

• Work closely with teachers, the Head of Inclusion, therapists, support staff, and external professionals to support student progress.
• Contribute to review meetings, IEP meetings, and inclusion planning discussions.
• Support effective communication with parents through agreed school systems, including communication diaries, progress updates, and review meetings.
• Share both achievements and concerns in a professional, timely, and constructive manner.

Professional Responsibilities

• Attend staff meetings, inclusion meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities as required.
• Participate fully in induction, appraisal, and continuous professional development programmes.
• Keep up to date with best practice in inclusive education and student support.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the school to promote a culture of inclusion and excellence.
• Contribute positively to the wider life of the school and support school events and activities when required.

Safeguarding, Health and Safety

• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding all student information and records.
• Adhere to all school policies relating to safeguarding, child protection, health and safety, behaviour, confidentiality, and data protection.
• Promote a safe, secure, and inclusive learning environment at all times.
• Report any safeguarding, welfare, or health and safety concerns immediately through the appropriate channels.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent (essential).
• Relevant qualification in Special Educational Needs, Child Development, Education, or Learning Support (desirable).

Experience

• Previous experience working with children in a school or educational setting.
• Experience supporting students with SEND, EAL, or additional learning needs is desirable.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with students, staff, and parents.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine commitment to supporting student success.
• Good organisational and record-keeping skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Commitment to inclusion, safeguarding, and continuous professional development.

Professional Expectations

The post holder will:

• Uphold and promote the GEMS Core Values.
• Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and respect at all times.
• Maintain high standards of attendance, punctuality, and conduct.
• Support the vision, mission, and values of the school.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties as directed by the Principal, Head of Inclusion, or Line Manager in support of student learning and school operations.

GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of its students and staff. A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is a pre-requisite for all appointments.