Graduate SEN Learning Support Assistant

Graduate SEN Learning Support Assistant – Specialist Schools Darlington

About Us

At Milk Education, we’re passionate about helping graduates take the first step into a rewarding career in education. We offer more than just placements – you’ll receive ongoing support, access to high-quality training, and opportunities to develop your experience within specialist education settings. We are currently recruiting Graduate SEN Learning Support Assistants to join a number of welcoming specialist schools across Darlington on long‑term placements starting in September 2026.

This opportunity is ideal for graduates considering a future career in teaching, educational psychology, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, counselling, or other child‑focused professions. Our partner schools provide inclusive, nurturing environments where pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) are supported to achieve their full potential.

Graduate SEN Learning Support Assistant main responsibilities will include:

• Providing one‑to‑one and small group support for pupils with a range of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
• Supporting pupils with Autism (ASD), ADHD, speech and language needs, moderate learning difficulties, and other additional needs.
• Working alongside class teachers to deliver engaging, differentiated learning activities tailored to individual pupils.
• Following Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and personalised support strategies to promote progress and independence.
• Building positive relationships with pupils to encourage confidence, engagement, and participation in learning.
• Promoting an inclusive, safe, and supportive classroom environment where every child feels valued.
• Supporting pupils with communication, emotional regulation, social development, and life skills.
• Encouraging positive behaviour using appropriate behaviour management strategies and school policies.
• Working collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, parents, carers, and external professionals to provide consistent support.
• Monitoring pupil progress and contributing to observations and feedback where appropriate.

Graduate SEN Learning Support Assistant requirements or Skills

• A 2:2 degree or above, achieved within the last three years, in any subject.
• A genuine interest in working with children and young people with SEND and pursuing a career in education or child development.
• Previous experience working with children or young people through schools, tutoring, coaching, youth work, volunteering, care, or similar settings is desirable but not essential.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships.
• A patient, compassionate, and proactive approach, with a willingness to learn and develop professionally.
• The ability to work effectively as part of a wider school team and adapt to the individual needs of pupils.

Benefits

• Competitive rates of pay with opportunities to secure permanent school positions.
• Speedy registration process & fast‑track compliance – APSCo Compliance+ accredited for the highest safer recruitment standards.
• Flexible long‑term opportunities across Darlington.
• Carefully matched placements based on your career aspirations, experience, and strengths.
• Access to our Priority Partnership schools, offering excellent graduate development opportunities.
• Free CPD before placement, including Safeguarding, SEND and Behaviour training, plus access to further accredited courses through Milk Academy.
• FREE PSHE lesson plans and classroom resources designed by experienced teachers.
• FREE wellbeing resources and access to our educator community hub.
• School Preparation Packs with useful school information and handover notes before your first day.
• Ongoing support from your dedicated consultant throughout your placement.

This role is paid within the advertised pay scale. Your starting rate will be determined by your qualifications, relevant experience, and the requirements of the assignment.

Interested?

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Milk Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We are APSCo Compliance+ accredited, meeting the highest standards in safer recruitment. All applicants will be subject to compliance checks in line with DfE, Keeping Children Safe in Education, and APSCo guidelines.

Milk Education is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age. By applying, you agree to our Privacy Policy, available on our website. Milk Education is acting as an employment agency in relation to this vacancy.

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