Complex Needs Learning Support Assistants

  • Prospero Teaching
  • Poole, Dorset
  • Apr 01, 2026
Contractor Education

Job Description

Complex Needs Learning Support Assistants - Specialist School, Poole

We are seeking compassionate, resilient and committed Learning Support Assistants to join a highly specialist school in Poole, supporting pupils aged 2-19 with a wide range of complex needs, including:

  • Autism
  • Communication Difficulties
  • Complex Developmental Delay
  • Complex Medical Needs
  • Emotional / Mental Health Needs (e.g., Anxiety, OCD)
  • Physical Disabilities
  • Sensory Integration Difficulties
  • Sensory Disabilities

This warm school provides exceptional care and education for children with profound and multiple learning disabilities and life-limiting conditions. You will help create a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment where every pupil can learn, communicate and thrive.

As a Complex Needs Learning Support Assistant, you will:

  • Support pupils' learning, communication and engagement
  • Assist with personal care and medical routines (training provided)
  • Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists and support staff
  • Promote emotional wellbeing, independence and positive behaviour
  • Adapt to pupils' individual needs and respond calmly to challenges

Contract Details

  • Location: Poole
  • Role: Complex Needs Learning Support Assistant
  • Setting: Specialist SEN school
  • Start: ASAP
  • Contract: Full-time, Monday-Friday- The school is also open to applications from ad-hoc supply staff who are available for day-to-day, short-term, or long-term cover.
  • Pay: £14.96 per hour
  • Hours: 08:45 - 15:30

Experience, Training and Qualifications

We welcome applicants from education, care, residential or medical backgrounds.

You will need:

  • Experience supporting children or young people with SEN or complex needs
  • Understanding of autism, sensory needs, communication difficulties or PMLD
  • GCSEs (or equivalent) including English and Maths
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to build trusting relationships
  • Professionalism, empathy and emotional intelligence
  • The ability to stay calm under pressure and adapt to changing needs

Personal Qualities

We are looking for individuals who are:

  • Warm, patient and nurturing
  • Resilient and calm in challenging situations
  • Team-focused but able to work independently
  • Passionate about supporting pupils with complex needs
  • Committed to helping every child experience success and joy in their learning

Eligibility

  • Right to Work in the UK
  • Enhanced child-barred list DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)
  • Professional references covering the last 24 months

What We Offer

  • Free accredited CPD, including SEN, safeguarding and behaviour training
  • Ongoing support from an experienced education team

If this role feels like the right fit for you, please send an up-to-date CV.