CPD for SEND Assistants (LSAs / TAs)
Supporting Learning and Access in Everyday Classroom Practice
A practical, confidence-building session for SEND assistants and support staff.
Suitable for primary, secondary and FE learning support teams.
This training is designed to support SEND assistants to develop a shared understanding of learning needs and classroom barriers, and to apply consistent, role-appropriate support strategies and reasonable adjustments that help learners access tasks, instructions, and learning activities more effectively.
The emphasis is on what SEND assistants can realistically notice, adapt, and support while working alongside teachers and learners.
Overview
SEND assistants play a key role in supporting learners to access learning, often working closely alongside individuals during lessons and activities. This training helps assistants make sense of the learning challenges they observe and develop a shared language for describing and supporting those needs.
Participants then explore some of the most common learning-related challenges seen in classrooms, such as difficulties with attention, processing information, following instructions, organising tasks, and sustaining focus. Throughout the session, practical examples and classroom scenarios are used to explore support strategies that help learners engage with learning more independently and confidently.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
- Recognise common learning needs without diagnosing or labelling learners
- Identify barriers that affect a learner’s access to tasks and instructions
- Use practical, role-appropriate strategies to support learning in the classroom
- Communicate observations about learning needs clearly and professionally
- Feel more confident supporting learners during lessons and learning activities
Practical details
- Duration: Approx. 3 hours
- Format: In-person or online
- Approach: Practical, learning-focused, non-diagnostic
