Learning Support Assistants

Activate Learning is recruiting dedicated, enthusiastic, compassionate, and motivated Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) to join our team at Merrist Wood College, supporting students with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) on Tier three programmes.

Our college is committed to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment for young people and adults with a range of additional needs. As part of our dedicated support team, you will play a key role in helping students achieve independence, confidence, and success in their education and future pathways.

About the Role as a LSA

As a Learning Support Assistant, you will play a vital role in helping learners with a wide range of additional needs to access learning, build independence, confidence and essential life skills within a structured and supportive environment. You’ll work alongside curriculum staff and support colleagues to deliver inclusive support for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities, helping to create a calm, welcoming and supportive learning environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Support learners in small group settings, including English and maths sessions
• Assist learners in working towards the next level of Functional Skills
• Provide support during practical, hands-on learning activities
• Encourage independence and promote positive behaviours
• Adapt support strategies to meet individual learner needs

Contract Type: Fixed-Term Contract (from August 2026 until July 2027) with the potential to be extended or made permanent.

Working Pattern: We are recruiting for a range of term-time only positions, with the addition of two weeks staff training at the beginning and end of the academic year. Working pattern: up to 4 days per week 8.30am - 3.30pm or 9am - 4pm.

What do you need to be a successful Learning Support Assistant at Activate Learning?

• Experience working with young people or adults with SEND (desirable but not essential)
• Minimum GCSE English and Maths grade C/level 4 or above.
• A patient, empathetic, and positive approach
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to build trusting relationships with students
• Comfortable working outside in all weather conditions
• Flexible, proactive, and able to work as part of a team
• Commitment to inclusion and safeguarding

If you’re passionate about making a meaningful impact and want to join a supportive, learner-centred team, this is an excellent opportunity to begin or further your career in education. You’ll work within a vibrant college environment where your contribution plays an important role in supporting student success and wellbeing.

What We Offer

• A supportive and inclusive college community
• Ongoing training and professional development in SEND and specialist support
• Development opportunities within the role can include access to relevant training and apprenticeship pathways, including Level 3 Teaching Assistant programmes.
• Opportunities to develop your career within further education
• A rewarding role where you can make a real difference to students’ futures

Who we are

Activate Learning is a pioneering education group with a global reach, committed to transforming lives through our approach to learning.

We see our employees as individuals, empowering them to make the right choices for their ambitions and careers. We value our people as vital to our continued success and aspire to a diverse, open and inclusive environment that provides the motivation for everyone to pursue their career goals and flourish.

When you work for Activate Learning, you’re working for an organisation that provides you with the advantages of a large employer, a trusted partner in your career development, and a transformational way of working whilst also investing in building a community environment for everyone.

Together, we will bring out the best version of yourself.

Activate Learning Group Employee Benefits:

• Monthly Staff Appreciation Awards: Celebrating staff for their dedication and accomplishments aligned to our award-winning Learning Philosophy.
• Wellbeing & Resources Groups: Comprehensive range of resources, guides and tools to support staff wellbeing
• Company benefits: Including free eye tests and will writing, plus access to a Health Cash Plan covering optical, dental, health screening, and therapy treatments for you and your dependents.
• Learning and Development: continuous opportunities for professional growth and skill enhancement through our in-house L&D team.
• Pension Schemes: Local Government pension schemes for AL staff
• Generous Annual Leave: Up to 6 weeks paid leave
• Competitive salaries: Annual incremental progression and a twelve point pay scale for teachers.
• On-Site Facilities: Free parking at all campuses, refectories, hair and beauty salons & gym access.

For a comprehensive list of all of our Wellbeing & benefits please visit our