Lifeskills Learning Support Assistant

Centre: NMT Berkshire (Reading)

Employer: New Meaning Training

Salary: Salary is negotiable and based on experience

Type: Full Time, Permanent, Term-time only

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Schedule: Monday to Friday 08:30-16:30

Closing Date: 05/05/2026 12:00 pm

Job Reference: BRKSACHLSA112506

Do you want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people with additional needs? Are you ready to support learners with EHCPs in developing the essential skills they need for greater independence?

We are looking for a Learning Support Assistant (LSA) to join our Achieve Lifeskills team at New Meaning Training Berkshire. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a learner-centred programme that equips young people with the practical, emotional and academic tools they need to live more independently.

The Achieve Lifeskills programme is designed for young people aged 16–24 with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). There are no formal entry requirements, and learners work towards a Diploma in Independent Living Skills, an Employability Award, and Functional Skills in English and Maths. Modules include money management, healthy eating, health and safety, independent living skills, and learning about independent travel—such as planning journeys and interpreting public transport timetables.

As an LSA, you’ll support learners both in the classroom and in practical settings. You’ll help them engage with the course content, stay focused, and build the confidence needed to take important steps toward adulthood.

Key responsibilities

• Support learners 1:1 or in small groups to engage with tasks across a range of life skills topics.

• Assist with classroom activities, project-based work, and independent living sessions.

• Help learners understand key concepts in areas such as money, food preparation, home safety and personal health.

• Support learners in developing confidence in real-life tasks and scenarios.

• Contribute to creating a calm, respectful, and learner-focused environment.

• Work closely with tutors to adapt resources and ensure learners’ individual needs and EHCP outcomes are met.

• Encourage positive behaviour, emotional regulation, and social interaction.

About Us

New Meaning Training (NMT) offers education with a difference. We are an alternative education provider dedicated to helping young people aged 16–25 discover their strengths and develop the confidence and skills to earn their own living.

This year 2025–2026 we have 300 young people from Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Warwickshire, West Midlands, and Berkshire learning with us. Many of these learners are referred by secondary schools, pupil referral units, and Special Education Needs settings.

Our journey began in 2015 with the opening of our first centre in High Wycombe, originally known as “Toolshed.” Ten years on there are now 7 New Meaning Training centres in the UK.

In Berkshire we have a range of learning programmes: Construction Multiskills, Creative Art & Design, Sports, Boost Workskills, and Achieve Lifeskills. All incorporate functional skills qualifications in Maths and English, along with tutorials and enrichment sessions to support our well-rounded approach. We also provide a ‘Transition Support’ programme for young people with EHCPs who are not yet ready for a learning setting.

NMT tailors its programmes to meet the needs of its learners, considering Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. We comprehensively apply the principles of a Loving Care Approach (Trauma Informed Practice) to ensure all young people receive the support they need to thrive.

You will have

• Experience working with young people, ideally those with additional needs or EHCPs.

• Familiarity with a range of SEN needs, with a supportive and empathetic approach to engagement.

• A patient, calm and reliable nature, with a passion for helping young people succeed.

• Confidence in working in practical, real-world learning situations.

• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

• Basic IT and record-keeping ability.

• A full UK driving licence is desirable but not essential.