Aspiring Psychologist – Learning Support Assistant South Tyneside – Education and Training
We are recruiting a Learning Support Assistant on behalf of a primary school in South Tyneside. This role will support children and young people who experience anxiety, emotionally based school avoidance (school refusal), autism, communication differences and additional learning needs.
Many pupils come from diverse backgrounds and have struggled to engage with mainstream education due to anxiety, past negative experiences in school, or complex emotional needs. You will help rebuild their confidence, trust in education and sense of safety in learning environments.
You will work within a small, supportive class team where the focus is on personalised learning, emotional regulation and relationship building, helping pupils gradually re‑engage with education at their own pace.
This role starts April 2026, working Monday to Friday, term time only, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. Pay: £107.17 to £115 per day.
Why this role is ideal for aspiring Educational Psychologists, Forensic Psychologists or Occupational Therapists
This position provides direct experience with children experiencing anxiety, trauma, school avoidance and additional learning needs, which is highly relevant for careers in psychology, therapy and SEND education.
- Supporting children with emotionally based school avoidance and anxiety
- Building trust with pupils who have struggled in traditional education settings
- Using trauma‑informed and person‑centred approaches
- Understanding behaviour linked to anxiety, emotional regulation and past experiences
- Working within a multi‑disciplinary team including teachers, therapists and external professionals
- Helping pupils rebuild confidence, routine and engagement with learning
- Supporting young people from diverse social, cultural and educational backgrounds
What you will be doing
- Supporting pupils 1:1 and in small groups throughout the school day
- Helping children who experience anxiety or school refusal feel safe and supported in the classroom
- Building positive relationships with pupils who may initially struggle to trust adults in education settings
- Encouraging communication, confidence and emotional regulation
- Supporting structured activities that promote independence and life skills
- Helping pupils manage transitions, routines and social situations
- Working closely with teachers and therapists to implement individual support plans
- Encouraging engagement with learning through patience, consistency and positive reinforcement
We would love to hear from you if you have:
- Experience in care, youth work, support work or working with vulnerable individuals (paid or voluntary)
- A genuine interest in psychology, mental health, therapy or SEND education
- Patience, resilience and a calm, reflective approach
- Strong communication skills and the ability to build trust with young people
- An understanding of how anxiety and confidence can impact learning
- The ability to work collaboratively within a team
You do not need prior school‑based experience. Your empathy, commitment and willingness to learn are what matter most. Full training and support are provided as part of your onboarding.
The school is easily accessible with good transport links, and driving is advantageous with parking available nearby.
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