Purpose of the Role
To provide high-quality learning and pastoral support to young people aged 11–25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) within an alternative provision care farm setting. The Learning Support Assistant will work closely with teaching staff, therapists, and farm staff to help learners access educational, vocational, social, and therapeutic activities, enabling them to achieve their individual goals and develop independence, confidence, and life skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Support learners with a range of SEND needs, including autism, ADHD, social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH), learning disabilities, and communication difficulties.
- Assist learners during educational sessions, practical farm activities, and outdoor learning experiences.
- Promote engagement, participation, and positive behaviour through consistent support and encouragement.
- Implement individual and targeted support for those with EHCP’s, behaviour support strategies, and risk assessments to be followed as directed by the Managing Director.
- Support learners in developing independence, social skills, emotional regulation, and self-confidence.
- Provide individualised and small group support where required.
- Encourage safe interaction with farm animals, equipment, and the outdoor environment.
- Maintain accurate records of learner progress, incidents, and observations.
- Support safeguarding procedures and promote the welfare of all learners.
- Build positive relationships with learners, families, colleagues, and external professionals.
- Participate in training, meetings, and professional development opportunities.
Person Specification
Essential
- Experience working with children or young people with SEND and those with high anxiety.
- GCSE grade A-C or equivalent in Maths and English.
- Understanding of safeguarding and child protection responsibilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to remain calm, patient, and adaptable in challenging situations.
- Commitment to promoting inclusion and positive outcomes for young people.
- A warm and friendly personality that supports learning and social skill development.
- A professional working manner.
- Must be confident, calm, and comfortable working in close proximity to a variety of animals.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Ability to demonstrate an understanding and knowledge of Equality and Diversity.
Desirable
- Experience within an alternative provision, specialist education, or care setting.
- An LSA/mentor qualification
- Knowledge of autism, ADHD, SEMH, and trauma-informed approaches.
- Experience of outdoor learning, animal-assisted activities, or farm environments.
- First Aid, Team Teach, or Positive Behaviour Support training.
- Knowledge of City and Guilds land-based qualifications.
- Animal care qualifications.
Personal Qualities
- Compassionate and nurturing approach.
- Reliable and professional.
- Enthusiastic about outdoor and practical learning.
- Resilient, flexible, and proactive.
- Passionate about supporting young people to achieve their potential.
Working Environment
The role is based primarily outdoors in a working care farm environment and requires a willingness to work in all weather conditions. Appropriate clothing and footwear will be required.
Pay and benefits
- Permanent contract
- Term time hours
- Be part of a friendly and hard-working team
- Working environment that promotes wellbeing
- Free on-site parking
Safeguarding
This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. The organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.
Applications close at midnight on Monday July 6th 2026.
If this post interests you, please contact Natalia- [email protected] with your CV.
Pay: £13.00-£15.00 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
