Learning Assistant

The Methodist Church in Britain; Nottingham; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Public sector pension scheme

Generous annual leave

Automatic pay progression

Family friendly policies

CPD and professional development

Employee Assistance Programme

Benefits marketplace

Free parking on all sites

Job summary

Purple Oaks Academy is seeking a Learning Assistant to support students aged 3 to 18 with autism and/or severe learning difficulties. You will help children communicate and participate, guided by the principle that all behaviour is communication.

Training is provided and the environment supports close, supportive relationships with small class groups. The role emphasizes teamwork, initiative, and sensitivity to individual needs, with checks, DBS, and right-to-work requirements in place.

Qualifications

• Understanding that all behaviour is communication.
• Excellent communication skills with pupils and staff.
• Works effectively as part of a team.
• Shows initiative and professional curiosity.
• Strong organisational skills for class support.
• Relates to and engages a wide range of students.

Responsibilities

• Support students to communicate in different ways.
• Assist with student engagement and achievement.
• Foster inclusive participation in activities.
• Interact with a wide range of pupils and support staff.

Skills

Understanding that behaviour is a form

Excellent communication

Teamwork

Initiative and curiosity

Organisational skills

Engaging diverse students

Job description

Purple Oaks Academy, a special academy for students aged 3 to 18 with autism and/or severe learning difficulties, is recruiting a Learning Assistant. The work centres on supporting students to communicate in different ways, on the principle that all behaviour is communication. Classes of six to ten pupils allow close relationships with each student, and training is provided. Experience with children with special educational needs is desirable, and visa sponsorship is not available.

What the job involves

• Support students to communicate in a range of different ways
• Support children using initiative and professional curiosity
• Help ensure high standards of achievement and engagement
• Engage with a wide range of students

What’s required

Skills & knowledge

• Understanding that all behaviour is communication
• Excellent communication skills
• Works effectively as part of a team
• Initiative and professional curiosity
• Strong organisational skills
• Relates to and engages a wide range of students

Checks & eligibility

• Satisfactory enhanced DBS disclosure
• Satisfactory medical and reference checks
• Evidence of right to work in the UK before employment starts

Other

• High aspirations for the children supported

Nice to have

• Experience of working with children with special educational needs

What’s offered

• Public sector pension scheme
• Generous annual leave allocation
• Automatic pay progression
• Family friendly policies and time off for dependants
• Professional development through CPD, apprenticeships, upskilling and professional review
• Free 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
• Benefits marketplace
• Free parking on all sites