SEND Learning Support Assistant – Nursery – Waltham Forest

We are looking for a compassionate, enthusiastic and dedicated SEND Learning Support Assistant to provide individualised 1:1 support to a young child with additional needs in a warm, nurturing and inclusive nursery environment.

This position is funded for 25 hours per week, with the potential to increase to full-time hours for a suitable candidate who is happy to undertake additional general nursery responsibilities.

The successful candidate will play an important role in helping the child feel safe, supported and confident, enabling them to participate in nursery activities, develop essential skills and achieve their individual learning and developmental goals.

We are looking for someone who is patient, creative, adaptable and resilient, with the ability to respond calmly and positively to challenging situations. Previous experience supporting children with additional or complex needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and communication difficulties, is essential.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference to a child’s early learning experiences, development and wellbeing while working alongside a supportive nursery team

• Provide consistent, tailored 1:1 support to a child with SEND, encouraging independence, confidence and active participation in nursery life.
• Support the development, implementation and ongoing review of individual learning and support plans, contributing to observations, assessments and progress monitoring.
• Adapt activities, resources and learning approaches to accommodate individual abilities, interests and developmental needs.
• Promote social, emotional, communication and cognitive development in accordance with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
• Support the child's personal care needs, including toileting, hygiene and other daily routines, while promoting dignity and independence.
• Work collaboratively with the SENCO, Room Leader, nursery colleagues and relevant external professionals to ensure a consistent and coordinated approach to support.
• Foster positive relationships with the child and their family, contributing to effective communication and continuity of care.
• Recognise and respond sensitively to emotional and behavioural needs, using positive, appropriate and individualised support strategies.
• Help create and maintain a safe, stimulating and inclusive environment in which every child feels valued and supported.
• Maintain accurate observations and records, respecting confidentiality and adhering to nursery policies and safeguarding procedures.

• Proven experience supporting children with SEND, preferably within an early years, educational or specialist setting.
• Sound knowledge and practical understanding of additional needs, including ASD, ADHD, SEMH needs and speech, language and communication difficulties.
• Good understanding of the EYFS framework and how to adapt learning experiences to meet individual developmental needs.
• Ability to recognise individual communication styles and adapt approaches to encourage engagement, understanding and positive interactions.
• Confidence in responding calmly, sensitively and constructively to behaviours that may challenge.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with children, families and colleagues.
• Strong teamwork skills, alongside the initiative and confidence to work independently when providing 1:1 support.
• Patience, empathy and emotional resilience, with a genuine commitment to supporting children's learning, development and wellbeing.
• Good organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritise responsibilities and maintain accurate records.
• Professionalism and discretion, with a clear understanding of confidentiality and the appropriate handling of sensitive information.

• Level 2 / 3 Diploma in Early Years Workforce, or Supporting Teaching and Learning.
• GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4/C or above, or Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths.

• Current Paediatric First Aid certification.
• Current Safeguarding certification.
• Current COSHH certification.
• Current Food and Hygiene certification.

• Commitment to continuous professional development.
• Physically able to carry out the requirements of the role.
• Flexibility to work various shifts as needed.
• Enhanced DBS on the update service (or willingness to apply for one)*.