WHAT IS A LEARNING SUPPORT ASSISTANT?

We are patient, and always on hand to offer a listening ear. We take a person-centred approach because it's important to us that we build positive relationships with our learners so we can understand their specific needs. Whether it means adapting learning resources or taking the time to explain tasks and ideas in ways that support individual learning preferences, we're there to help learners, whenever they need us.

We support providers and learners by encouraging full participation in learning, promoting independence and helping learners to understand and achieve what they are capable of. We may also support learners’ personal care programmes including providing social, medical and mobility support.

We work in partnership with relevant colleagues to  provide support based on the individual needs of each and every learner, working with them to unlock and achieve their career goals.

Our roles can be complex, and many of us have specific areas of expertise. This allows us to effectively support learners with a range of additional learning needs. We might specialise in supporting specific additional learning needs and using digital technology to support leaners. Sometimes our support focusses on learner wellbeing.

At times, it's a juggling act. We have to provide constructive feedback as well as praise, because we want to engage, encourage and inspire learners of all levels to overcome obstacles and fulfil their true potential.

* This role may also be known as learning support assistant, additional support assistant.