Learning Support Assistant

Paignton Academy are seeking to appoint a caring, enthusiastic and dedicated Learning Support Assistant to join our team on a permanent basis, working across our Borough Road and Waterleat Road sites.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference to students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), providing the support and encouragement they need to access learning, develop confidence and achieve their full potential.

About the Role

As a Learning Support Assistant, you will work closely with teaching staff and the wider SEND team to provide effective, individualised support for students with a range of additional needs.

You will support students both within the classroom and through targeted activities and interventions, helping them to engage positively with learning, develop their independence and make progress both academically and socially.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide tailored support to individual students and small groups
• Support students to access the curriculum and engage positively in lessons
• Assist with planned learning activities and targeted interventions
• Encourage students to develop confidence, independence and positive learning behaviours
• Support students' academic, social and emotional development
• Work collaboratively with teaching, SEND and pastoral colleagues
• Monitor students' progress and wellbeing, sharing relevant information with colleagues
• Help create a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience of working with children or young people, with school-based experience desirable
• Is passionate about supporting students with SEND and helping them achieve positive outcomes
• Is patient, empathetic, approachable and encouraging
• Can build positive and professional relationships with students
• Has strong communication and teamwork skills
• Is organised, reliable and able to use their initiative
• Is flexible and willing to work collaboratively across the Academy

Why Join Us?

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about supporting young people and wants to play an important part in their educational journey. You will join a supportive team committed to creating an inclusive environment where every student is encouraged to succeed.

If you are enthusiastic about making a positive difference to young people and would like to be part of our team, we would love to hear from you.

At Paignton Academy, we focus on developing well-rounded students who excel academically and grow socially, emotionally, and morally. We inspire our students to be kind, resilient, and responsible, preparing them to face challenges and contribute positively to society.

Paignton Academy is on a significant improvement journey which was recognised in its most recent Ofsted report (December 2024):

The school has redesigned its curriculum to be broad and ambitious. The knowledge pupils will learn is organised in a logical order. The impact of these improvements is evident in key stage 3, where pupils demonstrate they know and remember more of what they have been taught.

Since the previous inspection, the quality of provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) has improved. Pupils’ needs are identified quickly, and appropriate support is put in place. Teachers have a growing understanding of how to adapt their teaching successfully for the benefit of these pupils. The school ensures that pupils with SEND are included in the wider life of the school.

Pupils’ behaviour has improved. Lessons are calm and purposeful. The ‘speak up, speak out’ campaign has led to more pupils feeling confident to report concerns.

Why Paignton Academy?

• Strong Relationships: We value respectful connections between students, staff, and parents, working together to ensure student success.
• Love of Learning: We foster a passion for lifelong learning, helping students grow into curious, well-rounded individuals.
• Community & Pride: We instil pride in both our school and the local community, empowering students to make a positive impact.

If you're passionate about shaping young lives and helping students reach their full potential, come join our team at Paignton Academy!

The Thinking Schools Academy Trust

The Thinking Schools Academy Trust is a family of schools across the South West, South, South East and East of England, consisting of early years, primary, secondary and specialist provision.

We believe that every young person in our community deserves to have the best opportunities at life regardless of their individual circumstances.  That’s why we invest in our people, so that our staff are best supported to positively impact our pupils.

Learn more about our Vision and Values here

Why Join the Thinking Schools Academy Trust?

We’re proud to offer more than just a job—we provide a range of exceptional benefits to support and reward our staff

Career Development: We’re committed to your growth and offer fantastic opportunities for career advancement. From staff development days and conferences to apprenticeships at every level, we provide clear pathways for progression and exciting promotional opportunities across regions.

Health and Wellbeing Support: Access our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, free flu vaccinations and eye care vouchers. Enjoy reduced membership fees at our fully-equipped fitness suite and classes.

Employee Recognition:  Refer a Friend and TSTARS Staff Recognition Programme.

TSAT Benefits Portal: A one-stop shop benefits hub that gives you access to a range of exclusive benefits including cashback on your favourite supermarkets and high street retailers, Cycle to Work Scheme and Discounted Gym Membership.

Blue Light Card: Offering exclusive discounts and savings at thousands of retailers, restaurants, and attractions. 

What you need to do now:

If you are interested in working at our school, benefitting from a supportive network of colleagues across our Trust, and are keen to progress your career then please apply today!

Early applications are encouraged, and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a suitable candidate is found.

We strongly encourage anyone who may be interested in working at our school to contact Sara Robotham (HR & Payroll Officer) via email to arrange an informal conversation about the role [email protected]

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates, if you have any questions regarding this process, please email [email protected]