Learning Support Specialist

Overview

Learning Support Specialist - Somerset

Alternative Provision | EOTAS | SEND | 1:1 Support | Flexible Working | September 2026

Quantum Scholars is expanding its team of Learning Support Specialists across Somerset in preparation for an increase in EOTAS (Education Otherwise Than at School) and Alternative Provision referrals from September 2026. We are looking for compassionate, patient, and dedicated professionals to provide personalised 1:1 support for children and young people who are unable to access mainstream education due to their individual needs or circumstances.

This is a rewarding opportunity to help learners rebuild confidence, develop positive learning habits, and re-engage with education through tailored support.

As a Learning Support Specialist, you will work with primary and secondary-aged pupils (5-16 years) who have been referred through Somerset Council's Alternative Provision arrangements. Each learner has unique strengths and challenges, so you'll adapt your approach to meet their academic, emotional, and social needs. Your role will focus on creating a positive learning environment, building trusting relationships, and supporting pupils to make meaningful progress at their own pace.

Many of the young people we support have a range of additional needs, including:

• SEND
• Autism (ASC)
• ADHD
• Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs
• Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN)
• Anxiety and Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA)
• Trauma or adverse childhood experiences
• Medical needs
• Behavioural challenges

Support is delivered on a 1:1 basis, usually in the learner's home or an appropriate community setting.

• Provide personalised 1:1 support to learners who are unable to access mainstream education due to SEND or other needs.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with learners and create a safe, supportive learning environment.
• Adapt approaches to meet individual academic, emotional, and social needs and enable meaningful progress at the learner’s pace.
• Collaborate with families, carers, and practitioners to support learner development.

• Experience supporting children or young people with SEND or additional needs.
• The ability to build positive, trusting relationships with learners.
• A calm, patient, and adaptable approach.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• An Enhanced DBS certificate (or willingness to obtain one).
• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle is highly desirable due to travel between learners.
• Experience as a Learning Support Specialist, Learning Support Assistant (LSA), Teaching Assistant (TA), HLTA, SEND practitioner, Alternative Provision staff, Youth worker, Behaviour mentor, or Family support worker is welcomed. Qualified teachers seeking a flexible role are also encouraged to apply.

• Flexible working to suit your availability.
• Competitive hourly rates, dependent on experience.
• Ongoing referrals throughout the academic year.
• The opportunity to make a genuine and lasting impact on young people's lives.
• Dedicated support from an experienced consultant throughout placements.

Please note that applicants must already have the right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is not available for these opportunities.

If you're passionate about helping children and young people overcome barriers to learning and thrive through personalised support, we'd love to hear from you.