Job Introduction
Job Introduction
Interview Date: Monday 30th November 2026
Start Date: Monday 4th January 2027 (earlier if possible)
Contract: Fixed term until 31st August 2027, part time, term time only
Salary Type: Grade B, £25,615 - £25,958 (FTE)
Hours of Work: 08.30-15.00 Monday - Friday
Location: Southwood Infant School
Contact email address: adminoffice@southwood.hants.sch.uk
“Pupils are extremely happy to come to this nurturing school, where staff know each child as an individual. The school values of excellence, respect and enjoyment permeate through every aspect of school life. … The school is ‘friendly and welcoming – the perfect start in lifeʼ.”
Ofsted April 2023
We are looking to appoint an experienced, dedicated and enthusiastic 1:1 Learning Support Assistant to join our committed and supportive team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about making a positive difference to children's lives and has the knowledge, skills and experience to support pupils with additional needs.
The role will involve providing dedicated 1:1 support for pupils with autism and speech, language and communication needs. We are seeking an individual with experience of supporting children with autism and communication and language difficulties.
The successful candidate will be patient, nurturing and proactive, with the ability to build positive, trusting relationships and provide consistent, individualised support. They will have a strong understanding of autism and communication and language needs, including the importance of visual supports, communication strategies, structured approaches and adapting the learning environment to meet individual needs. They will be confident in using personalised strategies to support communication, encourage independence, promote engagement and remove barriers to learning.
The successful candidate will work collaboratively with the class teacher, SENDco, parents/carers and external professionals to ensure consistent, high-quality support and the best possible outcomes for the children.
We are looking for someone who:
- Has experience supporting children with autism and speech, language and communication needs.
- Can develop positive, trusting and supportive relationships with children and their families.
- Demonstrates patience, understanding, empathy and a calm, consistent approach.
- Is passionate about improving children's outcomes, encouraging their confidence and promoting independence.
- Has the ability to use and implement appropriate communication strategies and sensory support approaches.
- Works collaboratively and effectively as part of a team, alongside teachers, SEND staff and external professionals.
- Is reflective, adaptable and enthusiastic about developing their knowledge and learning new strategies.
- Is well organised, dependable and confident in using their own initiative.
- Ideally holds Restricted Physical Intervention training, such as Team Teach or an equivalent qualification.
We can offer:
- Strong, supportive and approachable leadership.
- A welcoming, friendly and enthusiastic team.
- Opportunities for ongoing professional development, training and career growth.
- Happy, engaged children who are enthusiastic about learning.
- A positive, rewarding and inspiring environment in which to work.
We look forward to welcoming you to our school.
Application Procedure
An application form can be requested by contacting Mrs Hurlow by telephone on 01252 375420 or email our school office at adminoffice@southwood.hants.sch.uk
Early applications are encouraged as they will be considered as they are received. We reserve the right to close the vacancy if a suitable candidate is found.
Visits to the school are welcomed and encouraged. For more information about our school, please visit our school website www.southwoodinfantschool.co.uk
Safer Recruitment
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.
