Job Description

Complex Needs (MLD/SLD) Learning Facilitator

Reports to: Class Teacher
Salary: £22,000 – £25,000 (term-time only)
Contract: Full-time, Term-time only
Location: Chelmsford

Purpose of the Role

The Learning Facilitator plays a key role in supporting high-quality, sensory-informed and relational learning for pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties.

Working with pupils in informal and semi-formal stages, the role ensures learning is accessible, meaningful and aligned to each pupil’s developmental stage, communication profile and sensory needs. The post holder helps create a safe, predictable and nurturing environment where pupils experience connection, regulation, success and enjoyment, and where progress is seen in communication, engagement, independence and emotional development.

Key Responsibilities

1. Teaching & Learning Support

• Deliver sensory-based and personalised learning activities planned by the teacher.
• Support play-based, exploratory and structured learning experiences.
• Prepare and adapt resources, including visual supports and sensory materials.
• Promote engagement, shared attention, turn-taking and early learning skills.

2. Communication

• Implement a total communication approach (e.g. Makaton, AAC, visuals, objects of reference, gesture).
• Support pupils’ communication development across all routines and interactions.
• Recognise and respond to early communication, including NLA (e.g. echolalia and scripting).

3. Sensory & Emotional Regulation

• Use trauma-informed, low-arousal and sensory-attuned approaches.
• Support co-regulation, sensory breaks and emotional readiness for learning.
• Follow and implement sensory and therapy plans (OT/SaLT guidance).

4. Personalised Support

• Build strong, trusting relationships through consistent, attuned practice.
• Support EHCP outcomes and individual learning goals.
• Respond to pupils’ cues, interests and sensory needs.
• Promote independence and functional life skills.

5. Behaviour & Safeguarding

• Use calm, relational approaches that prioritise safety and connection.
• Support behaviour and regulation plans and risk assessments.
• Promote positive interaction and emotional wellbeing.
• Follow safeguarding procedures and report concerns promptly.

6. Assessment & Recording

• Contribute to observations of pupil progress (communication, regulation, engagement, independence).
• Record evidence through notes, photos, work samples and logs.
• Support reporting for reviews and multi-agency meetings.

7. Team Working & Professional Practice

• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists and wider staff.
• Embed therapy strategies into daily practice.
• Engage in training, supervision and reflective practice.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience supporting pupils with SLD, ASD or complex needs
• Understanding of sensory needs, regulation and trauma-informed practice
• Ability to use visual supports and total communication approaches
• Calm, patient and relational approach
• Ability to observe and record progress effectively

Desirable

• Experience with AAC, Makaton, NLA or sensory integration
• Experience in a special or therapeutic setting
• Relevant training (e.g. Makaton, Thrive, TEACCH, Attention Autism)

All applicants will be contacted to discuss suitability and then invited to register with TeacherActive.



Registration involves an enhanced DBS check, ID checks and will require you to supply good professional references. We pride ourselves on excellent service. We can provide a wide range of opportunities in schools and other educational institutions, with good rates of pay, at times to suit your needs.



Regular external audits have shown repeatedly that our standards are exceptional. We are passionate about finding the right staff for each environment.

TeacherActive is an equal opportunities employer, and operates as an Employment Business in providing temporary or contract job-seeking services.