learning support assistant

Position: Learning Support Assistant (SEMH)Location: Colchester, EssexPay: £95 - £100 per dayContract: Long-term (with permanent potential)

Are you a resilient, naturally supportive person who wants to make a genuine difference in the lives of young people?

We are recruiting a Learning Support Assistant for an established SEMH (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health) school in Colchester. This is a highly rewarding, long-term role where you will support students who face significant barriers to learning. If you are looking for a career where no two days are the same and you can see the direct impact of your support, we want to hear from you.

The Role

You will work closely with students who require extra guidance, structure, and emotional support. Your goal is to help them navigate their education, manage their emotions, and build self-esteem. This is a long-term position with a strong potential to transition into a permanent contract for the right candidate.

What we are looking for:

• Resilience and a thick skin: You must understand that challenging behaviour and verbal abuse are forms of communication - it is never personal. You need the ability to bounce back and start every day with a fresh, positive outlook.
• A calming, nurturing presence: You can de-escalate tense situations and offer a reassuring, patient approach when students are overwhelmed.
• A natural relationship builder: You excel at finding common ground, building rapport, and earning the trust of young people who may find it hard to connect.
• Proactive and adaptable: You don't wait to be told what to do. You can think on your feet and adapt quickly to shifting situations.
• A true team player: You will be working alongside dedicated teachers, therapists, and support staff to create a safe, encouraging environment.

Experience & Background

While prior school experience is excellent, we highly welcome applications from individuals with backgrounds in care, youth work, support work, or similar settings. If you have transferable skills in managing challenging behaviour and supporting vulnerable individuals, we will support your transition into education.

What's on offer?

• Competitive daily rate: £95 - £100 per day.
• Opportunity for permanency: A fantastic pathway into a permanent role within a highly supportive Colchester school.
• Professional growth: Gain invaluable experience in the SEN and SEMH sector.

How to Apply
If you are a dedicated, specialist support professional ready to make a significant positive impact in a Colchester based SEN school, please apply immediately with your CV or contact Riya at View email address on randstad.co.uk for more information.

We are the UK market leader for recruitment in education. We have nearly two decades of experience helping teachers and support staff find temporary and permanent roles in schools, colleges, and nurseries. We partner with over 2,500 schools each week, supporting more than 135,000 children every day across the country, which allows us to find the right match for your skills.