Learning Support Assistant - British Sign Language
Closing Date: 30/09/2025
Location: Northern Counties School, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 3BB
Who Are We?
The Percy Hedley Foundation is one of the largest regional charities supporting people with a range of learning and physical needs. We take a person centred, flexible approach to the care and support we provide. We work towards excellence every day and our team members are committed to delivering the very best outcomes for the people we support. Our dynamic and flexible service is tailored to the specific needs of the individual, making it easier to live, learn and be part of a world adapting to change.
Northern Counties School aims to improve learning, wellbeing and future life chances for children and young people with significant additional needs. Teachers, Therapists and Learning Support Assistants work together in trans-disciplinary teams to meet the individual needs of every pupil. Through detailed analysis of each pupil’s presentation, we believe we can unlock potential and support achievement for all.
The Role
We are seeking a passionate and dedicated British Sign Language (BSL) Learning Support Assistant to join our inclusive and supportive team at Northern Counties School. This role requires a BSL level 1 or above qualification.
If you are dedicated to a career in special education and believe that every pupil and learner has the right to high quality provision, we would love to hear from you. You will join a strong and skilled teaching support team in a forward-thinking, innovative school with expertise in Positive Behaviour Support, which will provide opportunities for your personal development and growth.
We are looking for enthusiastic and dedicated Teaching Assistants who can support students with Autism.
The successful candidate will be:
* BSL level 1 or above qualified
* A dedicated and skilled professional with a clear pupil-centred focus
* Aspiring and committed to improving learning attainment and lives of pupils with Autism
* Experienced in working with pupils with autism, some of whom may display behaviours of concern, or able to demonstrate transferable skills from other employment areas
* A robust and resilient practitioner able to perform in a dynamic and challenging environment
Full and part time roles considered. A full-time role would be 35.75 hours per week, term time only (39 weeks).
If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity please contact Charlotte Booth on 0191 2815821 for an informal discussion.
Why Work for Us
Northern Counties is a school that encourages career development and progression. We run a robust training programme and offer development opportunities within school and across the wider Foundation.
We offer the following benefits to staff:
* Wellbeing support (including occupational health, physio services and counselling)
* Contributory Pension Scheme
* Induction and ongoing training
* Employee Assistance Programme
* Rewards scheme to save money on shopping
* Cycle to Work Scheme
* Sociable working hours, starting at 8.30am with an earlier finish on a Friday
* Have the school holidays off
* Discounted Nexus Corporate Pop Card (cost spread over 12 months, salary deducted)
Salary amounts quoted are for the academic year and may be adjusted if you commence part way through the year. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore offers are subject to an Enhanced DBS and other employment clearances, including references and online checks in line with regulator requirements. It is an offence to apply for this role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children; the Percy Hedley Foundation reserves the right to respond appropriately. We encourage applications from disabled applicants and will provide guidance or support as needed. This role involves working directly with children and/or vulnerable adults; shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a criminal records self-declaration form prior to interview. The recruitment is ongoing and the vacancy will close when a suitable number of applicants have been appointed. There is limited parking on site and a waiting list for permits.
Job Details
Services: Education Services
Location: Northern Counties School, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 3BB
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £20,800 - £21,846 per annum (term time only)
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