Job Description:

Job Title: Learning Support Assistant

Location: Manchester

Salary: £14 per hour (PAYE)

Job type: Part Time - 2 days per week. Fixed-term contract - 12 months, linked to funding. Continued funding is expected, so the role is likely to be extended beyond the initial 12 months (subject to confirmation).

Start Date: Immediate.

Enemy of Boredom is the academy of creative excellence for young people who think differently. We operate as an alternative provision of contemporary arts education, including video games design, music performance and preparing-for-adulthood life skills courses, from a growing number of dedicated centres across the UK and online.

We are passionate about creating an inclusive, creative and supportive learning environment where young people can develop their skills, confidence and independence.

The Role:

Enemy of Boredom Academy is seeking a creative, dedicated Learning Support Assistant / Classroom Manager with experience supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEND), particularly ASD, ADHD and anxiety.

Based at our Manchester site, you will work 2 days per week, working closely with teaching staff to support students' learning, build confidence and help each individual reach their full potential in a positive and inclusive environment.

You will provide in-class and small-group support, helping learners access planned activities and achieve their learning outcomes. You will also support communication, attention, emotional regulation and positive behaviour using agreed strategies.

This is an opportunity to join a caring, creative and collaborative team that is passionate about helping every learner succeed.

Job Description - Learner Support:

• Provide in-class and small-group support to help learners access planned activities and achieve learning outcomes.
• Use agreed strategies to support communication, attention, emotional regulation and positive behaviour.
• Promote learner independence, confidence and appropriate peer interaction.
• Support preparing-for-adulthood and life skills activities as directed by the curriculum/session plan.

Curriculum Access and Session Delivery:

• Assist tutors with preparation of resources and practical set-up for activities, including basic use of relevant digital tools where appropriate.
• Support the adaptation of tasks and resources to meet individual needs, including chunking, visual supports and alternative recording methods.
• Reinforce routines, expectations and boundaries consistently.
• Work alongside teaching staff to create a calm, inclusive and engaging learning environment.

EHCP / Targets and Recording:

• Support delivery of individual targets, including EHCP targets where applicable, and contribute to evidence of progress.
• Maintain accurate and timely records as required, including support notes, progress observations, behaviour/incident logs and attendance.
• Contribute to review discussions and meetings when requested, providing factual observations.

Behaviour, Wellbeing and Pastoral:

• Promote a calm, safe learning environment using trauma-informed / relational approaches where trained and appropriate.
• Respond to dysregulation using agreed plans and de-escalation strategies and seek support promptly where risk escalates.
• Maintain professional boundaries with learners at all times.
• Support students to develop confidence, independence and positive relationships.

Safeguarding, Health & Safety:

• Follow safeguarding policies and report any concerns immediately in line with procedure.
• Take on the DDSL role.
• Support online safety practices where delivery includes digital platforms.
• Adhere to health and safety guidance, including risk assessments for practical activities.

Team and Professional Responsibilities:

• Work collaboratively with colleagues and contribute to consistent practice across sessions.
• Participate in supervision, training and performance reviews.
• Act in accordance with organisational values, policies and confidentiality requirements.

Scope and Decision-Making:

• The postholder supports implementation of plans and targets; accountability for curriculum and formal outcomes remains with teaching/lead staff.
• The postholder is expected to escalate safeguarding and high-risk behaviour concerns immediately.

Person Specification:

The successful candidate will have:

• Previous experience working with children or young people with SEND.
• Experience of working in a school or education environment.
• A patient, empathetic and proactive approach.
• Strong classroom management abilities.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Knowledge of managing EHCP outcomes.
• Knowledge of computer software for digital artwork, such as Blender, and video games design creation, such as Unity or Unreal, would be advantageous.
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
• A willingness to undertake an enhanced DBS check and comply with safer working practices, including appropriate boundaries, confidentiality and reporting concerns.

If you have experience as a Learning Support Assistant or in a similar role, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

Enemy of Boredom Benefits:

• Confidential support through an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Stress management and wellbeing resources
• Flexible working arrangements where the role allows
• Paid day off for your birthday
• Team and social activities

Candidates with previous job titles and experience of Learning Support Worker, LSA, LA, Educational Support Teacher, Educational Assistant, Educational Support Coordinator, Special Needs Support or similar may also be considered for this role.