Inclusive Practice for Learning Support Assistants: Practical Tips and Reflections from the LSA Perspective

Inclusive Practice for Learning Support Assistants explores the role of the LSA and, drawing from first-hand interviews, sheds light on a variety of LSA experiences and perspectives, detailing the (often hidden) aspects of their work to support the learning of special educational needs and neurodivergent students. Covering key areas including wellbeing support, challenging behaviour and student independence, chapters:

• Provide LSAs with practical tips and reflective insights to improve their work supporting children and young people in schools
• Explore dialogic education and assistive technologies, with muchneeded reflection opportunities
• Include guidance on working with students one to one as well as in small groups
• Offer advice on how LSAs and teachers can foster strong working relationships in class

This informative and accessible guide will give both new starter and more experienced LSAs a strong and holistic understanding of the role, inclusive practice and where they can really make a difference for their students. It will be valuable reading for LSAs, as well as the teachers and SENCOs who work closely with them.

Zoe Hosier currently works as a learning support assistant in the sixth form college sector, where she runs group study skills workshops and supports SEND students to access their learning. She studied education at Homerton College, and her research interests currently include grounded practitioner knowledge and the LSA contribution to educational inclusion.