Learning Support Assistant - SEN; Trauma-Informed Practice

Learning Support Assistant SEN (Trauma-Informed Practice)
Location: Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 - 16:00
Salary: £14.30 - £16.00 per hour, depending on experience
Contract: Ongoing temporary with potential for permanent placement
Start Date: March 2026 or as soon as possible

Inspire EHC is seeking a compassionate and resilient Learning Support Assistant to join a specialist SEN school near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk. This role is ideal for someone committed to supporting children and young people with additional needs, including SEMH, Autism, communication difficulties and trauma-related challenges. Using trauma-informed practice, you will help pupils feel safe, understood and ready to learn.

This role offers the opportunity to make a genuine difference every day.

You will work in small classes of up to 6 pupils, supporting teachers and therapists to create a calm, structured and nurturing environment. Trauma-informed strategies will be central to your work, enabling pupils to build trust, regulate emotions, develop confidence and make meaningful progress.

• Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils
• Use trauma-informed approaches to support emotional regulation and reduce distress
• Model calm, consistent and positive behaviour throughout the school day
• Adapt learning resources and approaches to suit individual needs
• Work closely with teachers, the SENCO and therapists on personalised support plans
• Encourage independence and recognise every achievement
• Promote wellbeing, resilience and self-esteem through structure and encouragement

• GCSE Maths and English Language (Grade 4/C or equivalent)
• Experience supporting children with SEMH, Autism or trauma backgrounds
• Understanding of trauma-informed practice and de-escalation strategies
• You will be a positive part of the staff team with bundles of resilience!
• A calm, empathetic and proactive approach to challenging behaviour
• Strong communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills
• Ability to commute to Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk

• Supportive and inclusive SEN school community
• Over 20 free CPD courses, including trauma-informed practice
• Weekly PAYE pay with no umbrella deductions
• Dedicated consultant support
• Opportunities for career development within SEND

Our partner SEN school near Bury St Edmunds supports children with complex needs, including SEMH and Autism. With small class sizes and a strong multi-disciplinary team, the school provides a safe, nurturing and trauma-informed environment where pupils can grow socially, emotionally and academically.

Inspire EHC and our partner school are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants must have or be willing to obtain an enhanced DBS and provide two professional references. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

If you are ready to make a meaningful difference and bring a trauma-informed, compassionate approach to supporting young people, apply today to become a Learning Support Assistant in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk. Help create a safe, engaging and encouraging environment where every child can thrive.