Learning Assistant

Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers; Ōtara-Papatoetoe; On-site; NZD 32,000 - 42,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

tiaki allowance

Job summary

Papatoetoe South School is seeking a Learning Assistant to support students in an inclusive environment. The role involves 1:1 and small group support, collaboration with teachers, and assisting with learning resources.

The position emphasises personal care, mobility support, and adherence to PB4L/South Rise philosophy. A focus on Treaty of Waitangi and te reo me ona tikanga is required.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children, especially those with diverse learning or special needs.
• Well-developed communication skills and ICT competence.
• Shows initiative, sense of humour and a team-oriented approach.
• Able to follow instructions and adapt quickly in a dynamic school environment.
• Believes all children can meet high expectations and puts the student first.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 or small group support in classroom and playground under teacher guidance.
• Deliver curriculum-based, therapy, and life-skills programmes to support students.
• Assist with personal care needs and tiaki allowance responsibilities.
• Create and prepare learning resources and record data for student assessments; attend IEP meetings as required.
• Demonstrate commitment to Treaty of Waitangi and te reo me ona tikanga.

Skills

Experience with children

Communication

Attitude

Adaptability

Vision

Job description

LEARNING ASSISTANT - SUPPORTING STUDENTS IN AN INCLUSIVE SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT

Fixed Term Role until end of Term 4 2026

Job Tasks and Responsibilities

The role is in line with the Support Staff in Schools Collective Agreement.

Learning Assistants work collaboratively with teachers and therapists to deliver curriculum-based, therapy, and life-skills programmes. You will ensure every student participates safely and fully in the life of the school.

Student Support: Providing 1:1 or small group support in the classroom and playground under teacher guidance.

Holistic Care: This role will include a tiaki allowance for supporting students with personal care needs (toileting, hygiene)

Physical & Behavioural Support: Assisting students with mobility aids (powerchairs, walkers) or swimming, and positively managing behavior in line with our PB4L/South Rise philosophy.

Collaboration: Assisting teachers by creating and preparing learning resources and recording data for student assessments. This also includes attending IEP meetings as required.

Cultural Commitment: Demonstrating a commitment to the Treaty of Waitangi and te reo me ona tikanga.

Skills and Experience

We are looking for someone who embodies our values and:

Experience: Has proven experience working with children, particularly those with diverse learning or special needs.

Communication: Has well-developed communication skills and ICT competence.

Attitude: Shows initiative, a sense of humour, and a team-oriented approach.

Adaptability: Can follow instructions and adapt quickly to the changing needs of a dynamic school environment.

Vision: Believes all children are capable of meeting high expectations and puts the student at the heart of every decision.

About the School and the Role

Papatoetoe South School is a vibrant primary school for Year 1-6 students, with a roll of 570+. We are a diverse, inclusive, culturally responsive school committed to professional development and growing our people. Our culture is built upon our core values:

Ako: Learning together and from one another.

Kaimanaaki: Showing care, hospitality, and respect.

Aroha: Acting with empathy, compassion, and kindness.

Why Join Us?

We are seeking versatile Learning Assistants to join our team. These roles offer the opportunity to work across the school community. Depending on the current needs of our learners, you may be based within our Le Va Inclusive Centre, a specialist unit for ORS-funded students, or working within our wider school to support diverse learning requirements.

Part-Time Role

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8.15am to 3.00pm (Term time only).

Start Date: Beginning of Term 4.

Terms and Conditions: Terms and conditions of the roles are in line with the Support Staff in Schools Collective Agreement.

Applicants must hold NZ citizenship and permanent residency.

Your application will include the following questions:

• Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in New Zealand?
• Do you have experience working with children with special needs?
• Have you completed a qualification in ICT?
• Do you have experience working with children?