Job description
Complex Needs Learning Support Assistants – Specialist School, Poole
We are seeking compassionate, resilient and committed Learning Support Assistants to join a highly specialist school in Poole, supporting pupils aged 2-19 with a wide range of complex needs, including:
1. Autism
2. Communication Difficulties
3. Complex Developmental Delay
4. Complex Medical Needs
5. Emotional / Mental Health Needs (, Anxiety, OCD)
6. Physical Disabilities
7. Sensory Integration Difficulties
8. Sensory Disabilities
This warm school provides exceptional care and education for children with profound and multiple learning disabilities and life‑limiting conditions. You will help create a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment where every pupil can learn, communicate and thrive.
As a Complex Needs Learning Support Assistant, you will:
9. Support pupils’ learning, communication and engagement
10. Assist with personal care and medical routines (training provided)
11. Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists and support staff
12. Promote emotional wellbeing, independence and positive behaviour
13. Adapt to pupils’ individual needs and respond calmly to challenges
Contract Details
14. Location: Poole
15. Role: Complex Needs Learning Support Assistant
16. Setting: Specialist SEN school
17. Start: ASAP
18. Contract: Full‑time, Monday-Friday- The school is also open to applications from ad‑hoc supply staff who are available for day‑to‑day, short‑term, or long‑term cover.
19. Pay: £ per hour
20. Hours: 08:45 – 15:30
Experience, Training and Qualifications
We welcome applicants from education, care, residential or medical backgrounds.
You will need:
21. Experience supporting children or young people with SEN or complex needs
22. Understanding of autism, sensory needs, communication difficulties or PMLD
23. GCSEs (or equivalent) including English and Maths
24. Strong communication skills and the ability to build trusting relationships
25. Professionalism, empathy and emotional intelligence
26. The ability to stay calm under pressure and adapt to changing needs
Personal Qualities
We are looking for individuals who are:
27. Warm, patient and nurturing
28. Resilient and calm in challenging situations
29. Team‑focused but able to work independently
30. Passionate about supporting pupils with complex needs
31. Committed to helping every child experience success and joy in their learning
Eligibility
32. Right to Work in the UK
33. Enhanced child‑barred list DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)
34. Professional references covering the last 24 months
What We Offer
35. Free accredited CPD, including SEN, safeguarding and behaviour training
36. Ongoing support from an experienced education team
If this role feels like the right fit for you, please send an up‑to‑date CV.