SEND Learning Support Assistant

Location: Plymouth

Contract Type: Temporary / Daily Supply

Hours: Flexible, Monday–Friday, 8:30am–4:00pm

Start Date: Immediate

About the Role

SparkEd Recruitment is proud to partner with a range of welcoming and inclusive schools across Plymouth to recruit enthusiastic and dedicated SEND Learning Support Assistants for flexible temporary and day-to-day supply opportunities.

This rewarding role offers the opportunity to support pupils across Key Stages 1–4, helping them access learning, build confidence, and achieve their individual potential. Assignments may range from single-day cover to short-term placements, providing flexibility, variety, and valuable experience across different educational settings.

As a SEND Learning Support Assistant, you will work closely with students who have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), including Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. You will play a vital role in supporting both academic progress and personal development, helping young people overcome barriers to learning and thrive within the school environment.

Whether you are an experienced Learning Support Assistant, exploring a career in education, or seeking a flexible role where you can make a meaningful impact, we would love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide one-to-one and small-group support for pupils with SEND and SEMH needs.
• Build positive and trusting relationships that promote confidence, wellbeing, and engagement.
• Support students experiencing behavioural challenges, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, or emotional difficulties.
• Assist pupils in developing social, emotional, and academic skills.
• Work collaboratively with teachers and wider school staff to implement tailored support strategies.
• Contribute to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
• Adapt effectively to different school settings, classrooms, and student needs.

About You

We welcome applications from individuals with a variety of backgrounds and experience levels. Previous experience working with children, young people, or individuals with additional needs is beneficial but not essential, as full training and ongoing support will be provided.

The successful candidate will:

• Be compassionate, patient, and passionate about supporting young people.
• Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Be reliable, adaptable, and confident working within different school environments.
• Demonstrate resilience and a positive attitude when supporting students with complex needs.
• Have an interest in education, childcare, psychology, social care, youth work, or a related field (desirable).
• Have knowledge or experience of Autism, ADHD, SEMH, or behaviour support strategies (desirable).

What We Offer

• Competitive daily rates of pay, based on experience and qualifications.
• Flexible working opportunities to suit your availability.
• Access to wellbeing support and resources.
• A dedicated recruitment consultant to support you throughout your placement journey.
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
• Exposure to a variety of educational settings and valuable hands-on experience.
• The opportunity to make a genuine and lasting difference in the lives of young people.

Apply Today

If you are passionate about helping students overcome challenges, develop confidence, and achieve their full potential, while enjoying the flexibility and variety of supply work, we would love to hear from you.

Why SparkED Recruitment?

At SparkED, we specialise in placing talented, motivated educators and support staff in roles across the UK. We understand the vital role that every member plays in shaping the future of young learners, and we are committed to supporting you throughout your career. Our mission is to ensure that every child has access to high-quality education, and we are proud to be part of an industry that creates lasting change.

Safeguarding Statement:

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.

Join us in providing students with the tools they need to succeed and making a lasting impact on their futures. Together, we can make education a transformative experience for every child.