Learning Support Assistant – Pontefract – SEN School
Location: Pontefract (easily commutable from Castleford, Wakefield, Normanton, Featherstone & surrounding areas)
Pay: £101.40 – £120 per day
Hours: 8:30am – 3:45pm, Monday–Friday
Start Date: ASAP or January
Supporting Children with Complex Needs (Autism, PMLD & SEMH)
Are you empathetic, patient, and resilient - someone who believes every child deserves to feel safe, understood, and valued, no matter how complex their needs?
We’re recruiting Learning Support Assistants for a specialist SEN school in Pontefract, working with primary and secondary pupils with profound and complex needs, including Autism, complex needs, attachment difficulties, and trauma-related behaviours.
This is an ideal role for graduates or aspiring professionals in Psychology, Criminology, Youth & Community Work, Education, or related fields, as well as individuals with experience in social care, youth work, or SEN support.
What You’ll Be Doing
Build safe, trusting relationships with pupils who may struggle with engagement
Support emotional regulation using low-arousal, trauma-informed approaches
Provide 1:1 and small-group support, focusing on communication, sensory regulation, and wellbeing
Work closely with teachers, therapists, and pastoral staff to meet individual needs
Help children re-engage with learning through connection, empathy, and consistency
Celebrate progress and milestones, no matter how small
Who We’re Looking For
Graduates or professionals in Psychology, Criminology, Education, Youth Work, or similar
Calm, reflective, and resilient individuals who can stay regulated under pressure
People who believe in trauma recovery, relational practice, and child-centred support
Experience in SEN, care, youth work, or behaviour support is beneficial but not essential (training provided)
Why This Role?
Exceptional hands-on experience supporting children with complex needs
Ideal for careers in SEN teaching, social care, mental health, or therapeutic education
Work in a trauma-informed, supportive school environment
Training provided in Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), PDA-informed practice, and restorative approaches
Opportunity for a permanent role after the summer term
About Milk Education
Milk Education connects compassionate individuals with schools that share their values, prioritising wellbeing, inclusion, and long-term impact.
Benefits of Working with Milk Education:
Competitive daily pay rates
Free ongoing CPD and specialist training
Access to SEN resources and guidance
Reflective support and wellbeing check-ins during your placement
Dedicated consultant available to support you 24/7
Contribution to initiatives supporting mental health and emotional literacy in schools
Help children rebuild trust, develop confidence, and find their voice in a supportive environment.
Apply today