Durlston School is seeking to appoint a caring, patient and committed Personal Learning Support Assistant (PLSA) to provide dedicated support for a pupil in Key Stage 2 with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), starting in September 2026.
This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who is passionate about inclusion and supporting children with additional needs to thrive both academically and emotionally within a mainstream school environment.
The successful candidate will work closely with the class teacher, SENCo, pastoral staff and external professionals to ensure the pupil can fully access learning, develop independence, and engage positively in school life. The role requires someone who can provide consistent, nurturing support while encouraging confidence, resilience and autonomy.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide dedicated 1:1 support for a pupil in Key Stage 2 in accordance with the provision specified within their EHCP.
- Support the pupil to access the curriculum by adapting resources, clarifying instructions and scaffolding learning as directed by the class teacher and SENCo.
- Promote the pupil’s independence, encouraging them to develop self-help, organisational and learning skills over time.
- Support emotional regulation, social interaction and pastoral wellbeing throughout the school day.
- Assist with behaviour support strategies, helping the pupil remain engaged, regulated and on task during lessons and transitions.
- Liaise effectively with teaching staff, the SENCo and other professionals to ensure consistent implementation of agreed strategies and interventions.
- Monitor and record progress, observations and relevant pastoral or learning information, providing feedback to staff as appropriate.
- Attend review meetings, training and professional development sessions relevant to the pupil’s needs and the role.
- Comply fully with safeguarding, child protection, health and safety, confidentiality and data protection procedures.
- Contribute positively to the inclusive ethos and wider life of the school.
Person Specification
The ideal candidate will:
- Have experience working with children with additional learning, communication, sensory or social-emotional needs (desirable).
- Be calm, empathetic and resilient, with a nurturing and professional approach.
- Build positive and trusting relationships with children, parents and colleagues.
- Be adaptable and responsive to changing needs throughout the school day.
- Demonstrate strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Be committed to inclusion and to supporting every child to achieve their potential.
Previous experience in an educational, SEND or pastoral support role would be advantageous, although full training will be provided for the right candidate.
To be considered for this role, applicants will be asked to complete a School Application Form. Please apply through Indeed in the first instance.
Closing date: 13th July 2026
Interviews: TBD
Durlston School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate for the post, including checks with past employers and the DBS Service.
Pay: £20,641.00 per year
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
