Job Description:

Learning Support Assistant – SEMH / EBD

Location: Newton Abbot, Devon
Pay: £110–£150 per day, depending on experience
Contract: Full-time OR Part-time | Long-term
Start Date: September 2026

Learning Support Assistant – SEMH / EBD

Luma Education Recruitment is working with a specialist school in Newton Abbot, Devon, to recruit a caring, resilient and experienced Learning Support Assistant to join their team from September 2026.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working with young people who may require additional support with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, behaviour and emotional regulation.

The school provides a supportive environment with small class sizes, allowing staff to build strong relationships with pupils and provide the individual support they need to succeed.

The school is also open to candidates with HLTA experience or qualifications, depending on their background and suitability for the role.

About the Role

As a Learning Support Assistant, you will work closely with teachers and the wider support team to help pupils engage positively with their education.

Your responsibilities may include:

• Supporting pupils within small SEMH-focused classes
• Providing one-to-one and small-group support where required
• Helping pupils manage behaviour, emotions and social situations
• Building positive and trusting relationships with pupils
• Supporting learning and engagement across the curriculum
• Encouraging pupils to develop confidence, independence and positive behaviours
• Working alongside teachers and other support staff
• Following individual support plans and behaviour strategies
• Helping maintain a calm, structured and safe learning environment
• Supporting pupils both inside and outside the classroom

The Pupils

The setting supports young people who may have SEMH, EBD, behavioural and emotional needs.

This role would suit someone who is patient, consistent and confident working with pupils who may find mainstream education challenging.

You don't need to have worked in a specialist setting previously if you have strong experience supporting children or young people with challenging behaviour, additional needs, care experience, youth work, mentoring or pastoral support.

About You

We're looking for someone who is:

• Experienced working with children or young people
• Confident supporting pupils with SEMH or behavioural needs
• Patient, calm and consistent in their approach
• Able to build strong and positive relationships
• Resilient and able to remain composed in challenging situations
• A good communicator and team player
• Passionate about helping young people overcome barriers to learning

HLTA-qualified or experienced candidates are also encouraged to apply.

Relevant qualifications such as HLTA, Teaching Assistant, Education, Youth Work, Childcare or Behaviour Support are desirable but experience and the right attitude are equally important.

An Enhanced DBS will be required prior to starting.

Location & Transport

The school is located in a more rural and remote area of Newton Abbot. Access to a car is therefore an advantage, particularly for candidates travelling from surrounding areas.

However, the setting is accessible via public transport, so driving is not essential for the right candidate.

What We Offer

• £110–£150 per day, depending on experience
• Full-time, long-term opportunity from September 2026
• Small class sizes
• Supportive specialist setting
• Opportunity to develop SEMH and specialist education experience
• Dedicated consultant support from Luma Education Recruitment
• Weekly pay
• Ongoing training and CPD opportunities
• Potential for longer-term and permanent opportunities

Why Work with Luma Education Recruitment?

Luma Education Recruitment specialises in education recruitment, connecting talented teachers and support staff with schools and specialist settings across the UK.

We take the time to understand your experience and what you're looking for, helping you find roles that genuinely suit your skills and career goals.

If you're an experienced Learning Support Assistant, Teaching Assistant, HLTA, Behaviour Support Worker, Youth Worker or education professional looking for a rewarding opportunity supporting young people with SEMH needs in Newton Abbot, Devon, we'd love to hear from you.

To apply: Send your CV today to discuss the role.

Luma Education Recruitment is an Equal Opportunities Employer.