Job Description

Learning Support Assistant | Harlow | ASAP Start

Full-time | Term-time only | Split Role (Class TA + 1:1 Support) | ASAP Start

A welcoming and inclusive primary school in Harlow is seeking a versatile, adaptable and relationship‑focused Learning Support Assistant to join their team as soon as possible. This long-term role is ideal for graduates or experienced support staff looking to gain hands-on experience supporting pupils with autism and complex behavioural needs.

This position is split across the school day: half spent as a general Teaching Assistant within Year 3, and half providing dedicated 1:1 support for a Year 3 pupil with autism who presents significantly challenging behaviour. The school is committed to providing consistent, structured and nurturing support to help the pupil access learning and regulate throughout the day.

As a Learning Support Assistant, you will work closely with teachers, the SENCO and external specialists, gaining valuable experience in behaviour support, autism strategies and personalised intervention approaches.

Key responsibilities

• Provide adaptable classroom support within Year 3 during the morning session

• Deliver consistent 1:1 support for a pupil with autism and challenging behaviour each afternoon

• Implement behaviour, communication and regulation strategies recommended by SENCO and external professionals

• Build a strong, trusting relationship to promote emotional safety and engagement

• Support learning through structure, routine and clear expectations

• Use calm communication, de-escalation and consistent boundaries

• Monitor behaviour patterns and progress and share feedback with staff

• Contribute to wider SEND provision across the school

What the school offers

• Direct experience supporting a pupil with autism and complex behavioural needs

• Close collaboration with SENCO and external specialists

• Training in behaviour support, autism strategies and communication approaches

• A supportive, experienced staff team with strong SEND practice

• Structured routines and clear behaviour systems

• Excellent preparation for careers in Teaching, Educational Psychology, Behaviour Support or SEND

The successful candidate will:

• Hold a 1st Class or 2:1 degree in Psychology, Education, SEND, Social Sciences or a related field (desirable)

• Have previous experience working with children or young people - a must

• Show a genuine interest in supporting pupils with autism and behavioural needs

• Demonstrate excellent communication, patience and emotional resilience

• Be adaptable, versatile and confident in dynamic situations

• Be able to build strong, trusting relationships with pupils who require consistency

• Work effectively as part of a wider teaching and specialist support team

Additional information

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK, as we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position.

Ribbons & Reeves is one of Essex & London’s leading Education Recruitment agencies. We specialise in helping graduates and support staff secure long-term and permanent education roles. If you are looking to gain valuable experience as a Learning Support Assistant in Harlow, get in touch with Ribbons & Reeves today to discuss your next career step.