SEND Learning Support Assistant – Communication Pathway
Are you passionate about supporting children with communication and interaction needs? We’re working with a specialist SEN school in Leeds that supports children and young people across primary and secondary age groups who are on the Communication Pathway – focusing on developing communication, engagement, independence, and emotional regulation.
This role is ideal for experienced Learning Support Assistants, SEN practitioners, or graduates in Psychology, Criminology, Speech and Language, or Education who want to make a real impact in a structured, nurturing environment.
About the Communication Pathway
The Communication Pathway supports learners typically working within Curriculum Stages 1–3. The focus is on helping pupils make clear choices, express preferences, and develop both receptive and expressive language skills through engaging and meaningful learning experiences.
You’ll be working closely with teaching staff and therapists to help learners communicate, regulate, and grow in confidence — using approaches proven to make a difference.
What You’ll Be Doing
1. Supporting pupils aged 5–16 with autism, communication challenges, and sensory needs
2. Using visual communication methods such as Makaton, symbols, and objects of reference
3. Encouraging engagement and attention through structured teaching and consistent routines
4. Supporting pupils to develop independence, emotional regulation, and social skills
5. Helping implement sensory diets and personalised sensory passports
6. Working collaboratively with teachers and SENCOs to track progress and celebrate achievements
7. Supporting offsite learning and sensory-based activities that build life skills and confidence
Teaching and Support Approaches You’ll Use
8. TEACCH
9. Attention Autism
10. Intensive Interaction
11. The Curiosity Approach
12. Sensory Circuits and Sensory Integration
13. Makaton and Communication Aids
14. Lego Therapy and Six Bricks
15. Forest School and Outdoor Learning
What We’re Looking For
16. Experience supporting children with SEN, communication difficulties, or autism
17. Confidence in using visual communication and structured routines
18. A calm, empathetic, and consistent approach to behaviour and engagement
19. Strong teamwork and communication skills
20. Full-time, term-time availability
Desirable Backgrounds:
21. SEN, Learning Mentor, or Behaviour Support roles
22. Psychology, Speech & Language, or Education graduates
23. Care, residential, or social support backgrounds
What’s On Offer
24. £101.42 – £115 per day (paid weekly)
25. Supportive and inclusive school community
26. Ongoing professional development and CPD opportunities
27. A chance to genuinely improve the lives of children with complex communication needs
28. Long-term, stable role with opportunities for career growth
How to Apply
If you’re passionate about supporting children with communication and learning needs and want to be part of an exceptional SEN provision in Leeds, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now or contact Samuel Agbana Below.
0113 418 0100