Learning Support Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of inclusive education, the need for Learning Support Assistants is more essential than ever.

As educational paradigms shift, there’s a growing demand for compassionate individuals who can foster, facilitate, and fortify a supportive learning environment for every student.

But what exactly does a Learning Support Assistant do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A school administrator outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the fundamental role of a Learning Support Assistant,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Learning Support Assistant job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or educational career sites.

Let’s dive in.

Learning Support Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Learning Support Assistants provide support to teachers and students within a classroom environment, especially those who have learning difficulties, disabilities, or require additional support for learning.

The duties and responsibilities of a Learning Support Assistant include:

• Providing support to students with mathematics, reading, writing, science and other subjects
• Helping students who have special needs or English as a second language
• Supporting the delivery of personalized learning plans for individual students
• Assisting the teacher in managing student behavior and maintaining a safe and positive learning environment
• Assisting with marking and correcting work
• Monitoring and recording student progress, behavior and participation
• Preparing classroom resources and helping to organize teaching materials
• Helping students develop independent learning skills and managing classroom resources
• Working closely with other professionals such as therapists and social workers
• Providing feedback to teachers and parents about a student’s progress or any issues encountered

 

Learning Support Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Learning Support Assistant (LSA) to join our team and support the educational needs of students with learning difficulties or disabilities.

The LSA’s responsibilities include working closely with teaching staff to plan for and provide necessary support to students, assisting with behavioural management, and promoting inclusive educational practices in the classroom.

Our ideal candidate is patient, empathetic, and has experience working with children with special educational needs (SEN).

The goal is to facilitate the development of students’ academic, social, and emotional abilities to their full potential.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist teaching staff in the planning and delivery of lessons.
• Work closely with individual students in the classroom, supporting their learning process.
• Help students with physical needs or disabilities, ensuring their comfort and safety at school.
• Monitor and track students’ progress, providing feedback to teaching staff and parents.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of Individual Educational Plans (IEPs).
• Help manage student behaviour and promote a positive learning environment.
• Support students during social activities and outings.
• Prepare learning materials and aids as directed by the teaching staff.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Learning Support Assistant or similar role.
• Knowledge of inclusive educational practices and techniques.
• Experience working with children with special educational needs (SEN).
• Familiarity with behavioural management techniques.
• Good understanding of child development and learning processes.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Patience, resilience, and empathy.
• Relevant certification, such as NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools, is advantageous.

 

Benefits

• Pension scheme
• Health insurance
• Training and professional development opportunities
• Paid holiday
• Wellness programs

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Learning Support Assistant
• Work Environment: School setting. The role may require some lifting and handling of students with physical disabilities, as well as managing challenging behaviour.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) or Classroom Teacher.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and school considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our school. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Learning Support Assistant Do?

A Learning Support Assistant works in educational settings, typically schools or colleges, assisting teachers in providing educational and developmental support to students who may have learning difficulties or special needs.

They work closely with classroom teachers and special education staff to implement individualized or group learning plans.

This may involve preparing learning materials, helping students to understand instructions, and providing one-on-one assistance to students who may struggle with traditional teaching methods.

Learning Support Assistants may also be responsible for observing and recording students’ progress and behavior, providing feedback to teachers and parents, and adjusting learning strategies as needed.

In addition to academic support, Learning Support Assistants often provide emotional and social support to help students build self-confidence and positive relationships with their peers.

This may involve supervising students during lunch and break times, supporting students in extra-curricular activities, and helping students to develop strategies for managing their behavior.

In all tasks, the Learning Support Assistant’s goal is to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment that meets the diverse needs of all students.

 

Learning Support Assistant Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Learning Support Assistant should have the skills and qualifications that complement your job description, such as:

• Strong interpersonal skills to establish positive relationships with students, promoting social and emotional development.
• Experience working with children or individuals with special educational needs, ensuring they have access to the same learning opportunities as their peers.
• Excellent communication skills, able to liaise effectively between students, teachers and parents.
• Problem-solving abilities to help students overcome learning difficulties and barriers to education.
• Patience and resilience to deal with challenging behavior and an ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
• Ability to adapt teaching methods to suit individual learning styles, promoting inclusive learning.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple tasks, such as tracking progress, creating individual learning plans and preparing learning materials.
• Knowledge of safeguarding regulations and experience in implementing these within an educational setting.

 

Learning Support Assistant Experience Requirements

Learning Support Assistants typically require a minimum of 1-2 years of experience in an educational setting, often gained through volunteering, internships, or part-time roles.

Experience can also be gained through roles such as a classroom aide, childcare worker, or special education assistant.

Working with children or young adults with disabilities or learning difficulties can provide valuable practical experience for a Learning Support Assistant role.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience may have developed their skills and knowledge in roles such as a Teaching Assistant, Special Education Assistant, or Early Years Practitioner.

They are likely familiar with teaching strategies and implementing individual education plans.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some leadership experience, such as coordinating a team of support staff or managing a classroom in the absence of a teacher.

They may be prepared for roles such as a Senior Learning Support Assistant or a Learning Support Coordinator.

Further experience and qualifications may lead to career progression into roles such as a Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO), Teacher or School Counsellor.

 

Learning Support Assistant Education and Training Requirements

A Learning Support Assistant typically requires at least a high school diploma or equivalent qualification, but many employers prefer candidates with a degree in special education, social work, psychology, or a related field.

They need to have a strong understanding of child development and learning strategies.

Depending on the region, they might require a specific certification or license to work with special needs children, such as a Paraprofessional Certification.

Experience working with children, especially those with special educational needs, is highly preferred.

This can be gained through internships, volunteer work, or previous employment.

In addition to formal education, Learning Support Assistants should have excellent communication skills, patience, and the ability to motivate and encourage students.

They should also be familiar with the use of adaptive technology and alternative communication methods, and be prepared to participate in ongoing professional development and training programs to stay updated with new educational strategies and regulations.

Some Learning Support Assistants may choose to pursue advanced degrees or additional certifications to improve their skills and increase their career opportunities.

This might include becoming a certified special education teacher or gaining specialized training in areas such as autism support or behavioral intervention.

 

Learning Support Assistant Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Learning Support Assistant is approximately $27,540 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can vary significantly based on factors such as the level of education, years of experience in the field, and the geographical location of the job.

 

Learning Support Assistant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Learning Support Assistant need?

A Learning Support Assistant needs to possess strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with students, teachers, and parents.

They should have patience, empathy, and a genuine passion for helping students learn.

Good organizational skills are also necessary for managing classroom resources and schedules.

They should also be able to identify individual student needs and adapt teaching methods accordingly.

 

Do Learning Support Assistants need a degree?

While a degree is not always mandatory to be a Learning Support Assistant, it may be preferred by some employers.

A degree in education, psychology, or a related field can be beneficial.

However, most crucial is experience in working with children or young people, and a willingness to undertake professional development.

 

What should you look for in a Learning Support Assistant resume?

When reviewing a Learning Support Assistant resume, look for experience in educational settings or working with children or young people.

Any training or qualifications related to education, special needs, or child development should also be noted.

Soft skills such as patience, empathy, and communication should be evident, alongside practical skills like organization and time management.

 

What qualities make a good Learning Support Assistant?

A good Learning Support Assistant should have a passion for helping students and a strong understanding of different learning styles and needs.

They need to be patient, empathetic, and able to build rapport with students, parents, and teachers.

Excellent problem-solving skills are also important as they’ll often need to adapt teaching methods to suit individual students.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Learning Support Assistant?

Hiring a Learning Support Assistant can be challenging as it requires finding someone with the right blend of skills, experience, and personal traits.

They need to have experience working with children or young people, and ideally in an educational setting.

They also need to demonstrate the soft skills necessary for working closely with students and teachers in a classroom environment.

It is, therefore, essential to have a robust recruitment process in place.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into what it truly means to be a learning support assistant.

And guess what?

It’s not just about helping students.

It’s about nurturing the leaders of tomorrow, one student at a time.

With our go-to learning support assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Go beyond the basics with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every student you support is a part of the bigger picture.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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