Job description
SEN Learning Support Assistant – Secondary School – Portsmouth, Hampshire
Start Date: September or October 2025 | Contract Type: Full-Time
Are you looking for a rewarding role supporting students with special educational needs in a dedicated school environment?
GSL Education are seeking a full-time SEN Learning Support Assistant (SEN LSA) to join a welcoming and inclusive secondary school in Portsmouth, starting from September 2025 or October 2025 (dependent on notice periods). This position is based within the school’s specialist resource base, which supports students with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), including those with Autism, learning difficulties, and speech and language needs.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone who has experience supporting children or young people with additional needs—whether in an educational, care, or health setting. The school offers training and development, with the opportunity to progress through pay grades as you grow in experience.
Key Responsibilities of a Learning Support Assistant - SEN:
- Provide tailored support to students with Autism, learning difficulties and communication needs
- Work 1:1 and in small groups to promote independence and academic progress
- Implement individual education plans and support strategies under the guidance of SEN professionals
- Encourage student participation, engagement, and confidence in lessons
- Collaborate with teachers, therapists, and other support staff to ensure inclusive learning experiences
SEN Learning Support Assistant (SEN LSA) Requirements:
- Experience supporting children or young people with SEN, Autism or communication needs
- Candidates from care backgrounds with relevant transferable experience are welcome to apply
- CACHE Level 2/3 or NVQ Level 2/3 in Teaching Assistant or similar is desirable but not mandatory
- A degree in SEN, Psychology or a similar field.
- A calm, patient and empathetic approach to working with students with additional needs
- Strong teamwork and communication skills
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting pupil wellbeing
- Have an up-to-date CV (covering the last ten years, barring any unexplained gaps) and an enhanced DBS registered to the Update Service (or be willing to apply for one)
Why Join GSL Education?
- Ongoing training and CPD opportunities
- A supportive and inclusive recruitment experience
- Excellent long-term career potential in education
- Personalised service from dedicated consultants
If you are motivated to help students with additional needs succeed and feel valued, we’d love to hear from you.
Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection and that successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks; including providing an enhanced DBS certificate registered on the update service or completing an application for a new check.
As an ethical, inclusive, and independent recruitment agency, GSL Education are committed to providing quality teaching and support staff in schools across the UK.
For more information or to register your interest in the SEN Learning Support Assistant role, or to be considered, please click ‘apply now’ to submit your full and up-to-date CV, and one of our dedicated consultants will be in touch.
Refer a friend and receive £250 once that person has worked 25 days through GSL Education.