Aspiring Psychologist - Learning Support Assistant Maidenhead INLDN

Aspiring Psychologist - Learning Support Assistant - Maidenhead

Education and Training - Aspiring Psychologist - Learning Support Assistant Maidenhead

Aspiring Psychologist / Educational Psychologist / Clinical Psychology pathway - Learning Support Assistant

Are you currently working as a Learning Support Assistant and looking to take the next step towards a career in psychology?

Do you want a role where your empathy, observation skills and patience can directly impact a young person's development, behaviour and emotional wellbeing?

We are recruiting Learning Support Assistants on behalf of a specialist education setting in Maidenhead. This role offers meaningful, hands on experience supporting children and young people with autism, communication differences, sensory processing needs and learning disabilities.

You will work within a small class team, providing personalised support to help pupils develop independence, emotional regulation, communication skills and confidence.

Start dates available from April through to September 2026, working Monday to Friday, term time only - ideal for graduates or support professionals seeking consistent, relevant experience before progressing into psychology related careers.

Pay: £101.40 per day

The school is easily accessible with excellent transport links. Driving is advantageous, with on site or nearby parking available.

Why this role is ideal for Aspiring Psychologists

This position provides direct exposure to key areas of psychology, including child development, behaviour analysis, emotional regulation and neurodiversity.

You will gain valuable insight into:

• How autistic children experience the world, including sensory sensitivities, communication differences and routines
• Supporting pupils who may be non verbal or use alternative communication methods (PECS, visual supports)
• Understanding triggers behind behaviours and responding using calm, structured and consistent approaches
• Applying trauma informed and person centred strategies in real world settings
• Observing how anxiety, overstimulation or change impacts behaviour and learning
• Working alongside multi disciplinary teams including therapists, SEN specialists and external professionals
• Building trust and positive relationships with children who may initially find interaction challenging

You'll experience both the rewarding and challenging aspects of working with autistic children - from celebrating small breakthroughs in communication or independence, to supporting pupils through moments of distress with patience and care.

Many candidates use this role to confirm whether a future in educational psychology, clinical psychology, child psychology or mental health support is the right pathway.

What you will be doing

• Supporting pupils on a 1:1 and small-group basis throughout the school day
• Helping children follow structured routines that provide safety and predictability
• Promoting communication, independence and life skills through tailored activities
• Supporting sensory needs (e.g. movement breaks, quiet spaces, sensory tools)
• Assisting with personal care, feeding or mobility where required (full training provided)
• Encouraging emotional regulation using positive, consistent strategies
• Working closely with teachers and therapists to implement individual support plans
• Helping pupils remain safe, engaged and supported during learning and social situations

Your consistency, calm approach and encouragement will play a key role in each child's progress.

We would love to hear from you if you have:

• Experience in care, support work or working with vulnerable individuals (paid or voluntary)
• A strong interest in psychology, mental health or SEND education
• Curiosity about behaviour and child development
• Patience, resilience and emotional intelligence
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work within a team
• Willingness to support with personal care when required

You do not need prior school-based experience - your attitude, empathy and willingness to learn are what matter most.

Full training is provided as part of your onboarding.