Learning Support Assistant

Classroom Support is delighted to be partnering with a specialist SEMH school in Chatham to recruit a number of dedicated Learning Support Assistants. These exciting opportunities will begin on a temporary basis, with the opportunity to secure a permanent contract following a successful placement through Classroom Support.

This is an incredibly rewarding role for resilient, compassionate, and committed individuals who are passionate about helping young people overcome barriers to learning and achieve positive outcomes.

The school supports students aged 11-16 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, many of whom have experienced trauma, attachment difficulties, adverse childhood experiences, or disrupted education.

The environment can be challenging, with pupils displaying behaviours that require calm, consistent, and therapeutic support. However, the school has a highly supportive leadership team that invests heavily in staff development and recognises hard work, commitment, and positive impact. There are genuine opportunities for career progression and permanent employment for the right candidates.

As a Learning Support Assistant, you will play a key role in supporting students both academically and emotionally, helping them to develop confidence, regulate their emotions, and re-engage with education.

• Providing 1:1 and small group support throughout the school day.
• Building positive, trusting relationships with students who have experienced trauma and attachment difficulties.
• Supporting pupils with emotional regulation and positive behaviour strategies.
• Working closely with teachers and pastoral teams to create a safe and engaging learning environment.
• Acting as a positive role model, mentor, and consistent adult for vulnerable young people.
• Encouraging resilience, independence, and personal development.

We're looking for candidates who have experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Supporting children or young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
• Managing challenging behaviour using positive behaviour management techniques.
• Building strong relationships with young people who have experienced trauma, attachment difficulties, or adverse childhood experiences.
• Mentoring or supporting vulnerable children and young people within education or care settings.

Experience in any of the following environments would be highly desirable:

• SEMH schools
• Pupil Referral Units (PRUs)
• Alternative Provision settings
• Children's Residential Homes
• Youth Justice Services
• Young Offender Institutions
• Youth Work or Behaviour Mentoring
• Mental Health Support roles
• Foster Care or supporting looked-after children

Restraint or positive handling training (although physical intervention is always used as a last resort).

Attachment-informed practice or trauma-informed training.

A strong understanding of safeguarding and supporting vulnerable young people.

• Competitive daily pay of £105 per day.
• Weekly pay through Classroom Support.
• A clear pathway to a permanent position.
• Ongoing support from a dedicated education consultant.
• Opportunities to progress within a highly supportive specialist school.
• Access to a wide range of SEN and mainstream opportunities across Medway and Kent.

Classroom Support is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

Successful applicants will be subject to safer recruitment checks, including:

• An Enhanced DBS with Children's Barred List (registered on the Update Service), or willingness to obtain one.
• Professional reference checks.
• Right to work verification.
• Any additional checks required in line with Department for Education guidance.
• A strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection is essential for this role.

As an ethical, independent, and inclusive education recruitment agency, we are passionate about connecting exceptional education professionals with rewarding opportunities across Kent. We build long-term relationships with our candidates, providing ongoing guidance, support, and access to excellent career opportunities.