The right support can completely transform a child’s experience of education. Sometimes all it takes is patience, encouragement and someone who truly believes in them.
A specialist SEN school in Sunderland is currently looking for a Learning Support Assistant to support pupils aged 4–19 with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and associated communication and sensory needs.
This school is built around the belief that every pupil deserves to feel safe, respected and supported in their learning environment. Staff work hard to create structured classrooms where pupils can develop communication skills, confidence and independence at their own pace.
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The Role
As a Learning Support Assistant, you will play an important role in supporting pupils throughout the school day.
Your responsibilities may include:
• Supporting pupils during classroom lessons
• Helping pupils understand tasks and remain engaged in learning
• Supporting communication using visual timetables, PECS and Makaton
• Assisting pupils during structured activities and sensory breaks
• Encouraging positive interactions and emotional regulation
• Working closely with teachers and SEN specialists
Many pupils experience sensory sensitivities, communication difficulties and anxiety, so creating a calm and supportive learning environment is essential.
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What We Are Looking For
We are looking for individuals who are:
• Passionate about supporting young people in education
• Patient, calm and empathetic
• Interested in learning more about special educational needs
• Motivated to build positive relationships with pupils
• Reliable and committed to making a difference
Previous school experience is helpful but not essential. What matters most is a genuine interest in working with children and helping them succeed.
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What’s in It for You?
• Valuable experience working in a specialist SEN school
• Opportunities to learn about autism, communication strategies and behaviour support
• A supportive school team who will help you develop your skills
• A rewarding role where you can genuinely make a difference
• Weekly pay through our agency
We do not use umbrella companies, meaning you will be paid directly through PAYE with no hidden deductions.
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Interested?
If you are passionate about education and would like to build experience supporting pupils with additional needs, apply now to find out more about this rewarding opportunity.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQs on the Protocol Education website for further details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Protocol Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with the DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’, this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer FREE online safeguarding and Prevent Duty training to all our workers. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and subscribe to the DBS Update Service.
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