Book excerpt: Written in the context of recent legislation in England and guidance to schools, this is a practical handbook for learning support assistants and teachers working with them. It can be used to ensure that: support assistants know what to expect of colleagues and colleagues know what to expect from support assistants; children are given the best support possible by support assistants who understand the nature of their needs; support assistants and teachers work together effectively to support the child with special needs; and that training is relevant an helpful.