Aspiring Psychologist – Learning Support Assistant

Aspiring Psychologist – Learning Support Assistant Colchester

Are you currently working as a Learning Support Assistant and looking to take the next step toward a career in educational psychology, forensic psychology or occupational therapy? Do you want a role where your compassion, patience and experience can make a lasting impact on a young person’s education and development?

We are recruiting Learning Support Assistants on behalf of a specialist education setting in Colchester. This role offers meaningful, hands‑on experience supporting children and young people with autism, communication differences, sensory needs and learning disabilities. You will work within a small class team, providing personalised support to help pupils build independence, emotional regulation, communication skills and confidence.

This is an immediate start role, working Monday to Friday, term time only
, making it ideal for graduates or support professionals seeking consistent experience within education.

Pay: £101.40 per day

The school is easily accessible with excellent transport links
, and driving is advantageous
, with on‑site or nearby parking available.

This position provides direct exposure to child development, behaviour, emotional regulation and learning needs
, all of which are highly relevant to careers in educational psychology, forensic psychology, occupational therapy and SEND education.

You will gain insight into:

• Supporting children with complex needs using trauma‑informed, person‑centred approaches
• Understanding behaviour, emotional responses and communication differences
• Working within a multi‑disciplinary team (teachers, therapists and external professionals)
• Promoting independence, self‑regulation and functional life skills
• Managing challenging situations with calm, empathy and consistency

Many people use this role to confirm whether a future in education psychology, occupational therapy, youth justice or SEND education is the right pathway for them.

• Supporting pupils on a 1:1 and small‑group basis throughout the school day
• Promoting communication, independence and life skills through structured activities
• Assisting with personal care, feeding or mobility where required (full training provided)
• Encouraging emotional regulation using positive, supportive strategies
• Working closely with teachers and therapy teams to follow individual support plans
• Helping pupils remain safe, calm and engaged in learning and social activities

Your consistency and encouragement can make a real difference to a young person’s educational journey.

• Experience in care, support work or working with vulnerable individuals (paid or voluntary)
• A genuine interest in psychology, occupational therapy or SEND education
• Patience, resilience and a calm, reflective approach
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team
• Willingness to support with personal care when required

You do not need prior school‑based experience. Your empathy, commitment and willingness to learn are what matter most.
Full training is provided as part of your onboarding.

• £101.40 per day
  , paid weekly
• Immediate start available
• Monday to Friday,
  term time only working pattern
• Speedy registration process and fast‑track compliance
• Flexible support and 24/7 access to your dedicated consultant
• FREE Perks Portal with exclusive discounts
• Access to 1,000+ accredited, discounted CPD courses through Milk Academy
• FREE PSHE lesson plans and wellbeing resources
• Eco‑friendly education supply agency with nationwide reach