Learning Support Assistant - Autism Provision

Shorefields; Colchester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - GBP 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Colchester is looking for a dedicated Learning Support Assistant to join their Autism Provision. You will support children with autism to thrive academically and emotionally under the guidance of experienced professionals. The role demands patience, empathy, and collaboration with class teachers. Clear opportunities for professional development and training in autism-specific strategies are provided. This rewarding position is part-time, requiring 25 hours per week, allowing for meaningful contributions to children's lives.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Guidance from experienced staff

Collaborative staff team

Qualifications

• Experience working with children with autism or SEND is desirable.
• Must be calm, empathetic, and patient.
• Ability to follow guidance and show initiative required.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils with autism in different learning settings.
• Implement support strategies based on individual needs.
• Create a supportive learning environment.

Skills

Empathy

Communication skills

Teamwork

Education

GCSE in Maths

GCSE in English

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a compassionate, patient and motivated Learning Support Assistant to work within our Autism Provision based at Kings Ford Academy, Colchester, supporting children with autism to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. You will work closely with class teachers and therapists, under the guidance of the Head of Autism Provision, to deliver structured, consistent and individualised support tailored to each child\'s needs. This is a rewarding role for someone who believes that every child can succeed when given the right support.

The working hours for this position are 25 hours per week, the working pattern is 8.45am - 3.00pm Monday-Friday. (15-minute unpaid morning break and 1-hour lunch break), paid on Scale 3 point 5, £14,421 per annum.

Key responsibilities

• Under the direction of the Head of Provision, you will:
  • Support pupils with autism in individual, small-group and whole-class settings
  • Implement support strategies informed by EHCPs and individual support plans
  • Use structured approaches to support communication, emotional regulation and behaviour
  • Create a calm, predictable and supportive learning environment
  • Promote independence, confidence and positive relationships
  • Observe and record progress, contributing to reviews and planning meetings
  • Work closely with families and external professionals where appropriate

Ideal candidate

• Have experience of working with children with autism and/or SEND (desirable but not essential)
• Hold GCSE (grades A-C or equivalent) in both Maths & English
• Be calm, empathetic and highly patient
• Understand the importance of routine, consistency and clear communication
• Be able to follow guidance while also showing initiative
• Have good teamwork and communication skills
• Be committed to inclusive practice and safeguarding

We welcome applications from candidates with transferable experience, including care, youth work, nursery or mental health support.

What we offer

• Clear guidance and professional support from an experienced Head of Autism Provision
• High-quality training in autism‑specific strategies
• A supportive, collaborative staff team
• Opportunities for professional development and progression
• A chance to make a genuine difference in children\'s lives

How to apply

is using its own application form, please click the button below to download and view it as Essex School Jobs cannot automatically fill out an application form that has been created by a school. You will need to download the application form before you are able to complete it.

Application Close: 23/02/2026 Midnight | Date of Interviews: 3.3.2026 | Job Ref No. ECC2131-97S | Position Type: Teaching/Child Support | Pay Range: Scale 3

Additional information

Visits to Kingsford Academy are warmly welcomed and encouraged; please contact the school on 01376 573807 to arrange an appointment.

Inspires MAT are committed to:

• Safeguarding and promoting the welfare and safety, and the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development, of children and young people;
• Promoting equality of opportunity and community cohesion where the diversity of difference backgrounds and circumstances is appreciated and positively valued;
• The fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance for those with different faiths and beliefs

and expects all staff, volunteers and other workers to share this commitment.

The appointment will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, medical clearance and satisfactory references. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.

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