About the Role
Part-Time, Term Time only
Monday-Friday 8.15-11.45
Fixed term: August 2026-July 2027
Are you a:
- Passionate and nurturing individual who is committed to helping children overcome barriers to learning?
- Experienced Teaching Assistant or Learning Support Assistant with a strong understanding of Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)?
- Reflective practitioner who values teamwork, professional development, and making a lasting difference to children's lives?
At Al-Islamia Institute for Education, we pride ourselves on providing an excellent academic education rooted in Islamic values. We are seeking an exceptional Learning Support Assistant to provide dedicated support for a pupil with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and contribute positively to our inclusive school community.
We are looking for someone who will:
- Build a positive, trusting relationship with the pupil and support their emotional, social and academic development.
- Deliver high-quality one-to-one and small-group support in line with EHCP outcomes and individual learning targets.
- Adapt resources, learning activities and classroom routines to meet individual learning, communication and sensory needs.
- Promote independence, confidence, resilience and positive behaviour.
- Support the pupil to access the curriculum and participate fully in school life.
- Monitor and report pupil progress against EHCP and IEP outcomes.
- Work closely with teachers, parents and external professionals to ensure consistent support and progress.
- Contribute to a school culture that values inclusion, safeguarding and continuous improvement.
- Actively promote the school's IKHLAS values of Inspiration, Knowledge, Healthy Living, Leadership, Aspiration and Spirituality.
Who Should Apply?
We welcome applications from candidates who have experience supporting children with special educational needs, particularly Autism Spectrum Condition.
This role would particularly suit someone who:
- Has experience working in a primary school, early years or childcare setting.
- Is confident supporting pupils with communication, social interaction and sensory needs.
- Is patient, adaptable and proactive in responding to children's individual needs.
- Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a team while also demonstrating initiative and independence.
- Has a genuine commitment to helping children achieve their full potential.
Person Specification – Essential
- Experience working with children in an educational or childcare setting.
- Experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC).
- Knowledge and understanding of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and individual learning targets.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team while maintaining high professional standards.
- Positive attitude towards professional learning and continuous self-improvement.
- Eligibility to work in the UK (visa sponsorship not available).
Person Specification – Desirable
- Experience supporting pupils with a range of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
- Relevant Teaching Assistant, Childcare or SEND qualification.
- Knowledge of communication and support strategies such as visual timetables, social stories or structured approaches to learning.
- Experience working alongside Speech and Language Therapists, Educational Psychologists or other external professionals.
- Familiarity with Islamic values, Tarbiyah frameworks and/or faith-based education settings.
Salary and Benefits
Salary: National Minimum Wage (pro rata)
Professional Development
- Access to accredited professional development programmes.
- SEND-focused training and mentoring.
- Opportunities to develop expertise in autism support and inclusive education.
- Ongoing coaching and development within a supportive school environment.
We Offer
Supportive Faith-Based Environment: A caring and collaborative staff team committed to staff wellbeing and development.
Purpose-Driven Role: An opportunity to make a meaningful difference to a child's educational journey and personal development.
Continuous Growth: A culture that encourages reflection, self-improvement and leadership at all levels.
Safer Recruitment Commitment
Al-Islamia Institute for Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all its pupils.
- All appointments will be subject to enhanced DBS checks, identity verification, qualification verification, right-to-work checks and satisfactory references.
- Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a self-disclosure form regarding criminal records or relevant safeguarding information prior to interview.
We expect all staff to uphold the highest standards of safeguarding, professionalism and integrity.
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Recruitment Process
Phase 1
Virtual interview exploring values, experience and suitability for the role.
Phase 2
School visit.
Observation of interaction with a pupil (in line with needs and wellbeing), or completion of a short practical activity.
Completion of two written tasks.
Panel interview exploring SEND knowledge and self-reflection
How to Apply
Please contact the school via email ([email protected]) with your name and interest in the role. An Application Form will then be forwarded for you to complete and return.
To discuss the role further, please contact the school via email.
Interviews will be conducted throughout the application timeframe. The school reserves the right to close the vacancy before the deadline when a suitable candidate is appointed.
Pay: £12.71 per hour
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Application question(s):
- Are you committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young children?
Experience:
- Working with individuals with autism: 1 year (required)
- Working with children: 1 year (required)
- working with children with SEND: 1 year (preferred)
- working alongside external SEND professionals: 1 year (preferred)
Language:
- English (required)
- Somali (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
- Teaching Assistant, Childcare or SEND (preferred)
Work Location: In person
