SEND Learning Support Assistant

SEND Learning Support Assistant – Specialist Schools Darlington

About Us:

Milk Education is more than a supply partner – we're a community for educators. Join us and gain access to training, personal development opportunities, and ongoing support. We're currently recruiting for SEND Learning Support Assistants to join a number of welcoming and inclusive specialist schools across Darlington on a long‑term basis starting in September 2026
.

You'll be joining supportive schools that are committed to inclusion and pupil wellbeing
, creating safe, nurturing environments where every child is encouraged to thrive. This is a fantastic opportunity for experienced SEND professionals, Teaching Assistants, or those with a background in care or youth work who are passionate about making a lasting difference.

• Supporting pupils with SEND on a one-to-one basis and in small groups, responding to their individual needs.
• Helping pupils develop communication, social interaction, emotional regulation, and independence.
• Working alongside the class teacher to deliver engaging, differentiated learning activities.
• Following Individual Education Plans (IEPs), behaviour support plans, and personalised learning strategies.
• Promoting a calm, safe, and inclusive learning environment where every pupil feels valued and supported.
• Supporting pupils with sensory needs by adapting approaches to suit different learning styles.
• Building positive, trusting relationships with pupils to encourage engagement and progress.
• Working collaboratively with teachers, support staff, parents, carers, and external professionals.
• Encouraging positive behaviour and supporting pupils to achieve their personal and educational goals.

SEND Learning Support Assistant requirements or

Skills:

• Recent experience working with children or young people with SEND in a school, care, or similar setting.
• Experience supporting pupils with Autism (ASD), ADHD, speech and language needs, or complex learning difficulties is desirable.
• Strong communication, literacy, and teamwork skills.
• A patient, calm, resilient, and adaptable approach to supporting learners.
• A good understanding of behaviour management and supportive intervention strategies.
• A genuine passion for helping children and young people with additional needs reach their full potential.

Benefits:

• Competitive rates of pay with temp-to-perm routes available.
• Speedy registration process & fast‑track compliance – APSCo Compliance+ accredited for the highest safer recruitment standards.
• Flexible opportunities across Darlington!
• Culture‑matched placements – we take the time to understand you and find schools that fit your values and strengths.
• Priority Partnership school network – access to trusted schools who work with us long‑term on staffing, enrichment, and community initiatives.
• 5+ CPD courses completed before placement (including Safeguarding, SEND & Behaviour) with access to further accredited training through Milk Academy.
• FREE PSHE lesson plans and resources, designed by real teachers.
• FREE Educator Wellbeing resources and access to our community hub – because we believe supported staff stay longer and make a bigger impact.
• School Preparation Pack with handover notes and insightful school guides – so you walk in ready on day one.
• 24/7 support from your personal consultant, directly through their work mobile phone to ensure your journey is personal.

This role is paid within the advertised pay scale. Your starting rate will be determined by your qualifications, relevant experience, and the requirements of the assignment.

Interested?

Click 'Apply Now' or drop me a message – I'm happy to chat through the details.

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Milk Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We are APSCo Compliance+ accredited, meeting the highest standards in safer recruitment. All applicants will be subject to compliance checks in line with DfE, Keeping Children Safe in Education and APSCo guidelines.

Milk Education is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age. By applying, you agree to our Privacy Policy, available on our website. Milk Education is acting as an employment agency in relation to this vacancy.