Location: Pontefract (easily commutable from Castleford, Wakefield, Normanton, Featherstone & surrounding areas) Pay: £101.40 – £120 per day Hours: 8:30am – 3:30pm, Monday - Friday Start Date: November or January Supporting Children with Complex Needs (Autism, PDA & 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, SEMH, 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 trauma-informed 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 or email