Learning support teachers usually have additional qualifications in teaching pupils with specific learning difficulties like dyslexia.
They may also be qualified to deal with a range of other specific learning difficulties.
They may be employed by the local authority, by a group of schools or by one school. They may be peripatetic or school-based.
They assess children referred to them by the school and they teach individuals or small groups of children on a regular basis. They support and advise the class teacher, special needs coordinator and parents on a range of teaching and learning issues related to individual children.
They may also provide staff training on aspects of special needs in which they have particular expertise.