About the role
Required to start as soon as possible.
Paignton Academy is seeking to expand its Learning Support team and is looking to appoint dedicated Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) to provide specialist support to pupils with special education needs, for example, learning, behavioural, communication, social, sensory or physical difficulties.
This is a rewarding opportunity for enthusiastic and motivated individuals who are passionate about supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
The successful postholders will work under the direction of the Learning Support Co-ordinator, providing targeted support to named SEND pupil(s) to help them access the curriculum and achieve their expected levels of progress. This will include supporting learning within the classroom and contributing positively to pupils’ educational, social and emotional development.
We are looking for candidates who:
• Have proven experience of working with children or young people, ideally within a school or educational setting.
• Can demonstrate a strong commitment to improving educational and social outcomes.
• Are empathetic, patient and approachable, with a genuine passion for supporting pupils’ learning.
• Work effectively as part of a team and build positive relationships with pupils and staff.
The role will include providing intimate care for specific students, as required. Intimate care is defined as support involving washing, touching, or carrying out personal care tasks that most children would typically manage independently but are unable to due to physical disability, medical needs or special educational needs.
This may include assisting with:
• Eating and drinking.
• Dressing and toileting.
• Personal hygiene.
• Changing medical equipment, such as colostomy bags, where appropriate.
All intimate care will be delivered in line with the school’s policies, safeguarding procedures and with dignity and respect at all times. Full training and support will be provided where necessary.
About us
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 and 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 consisting of both primary and secondary schools across the South West, South, South East and East of England.
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.
Why join the Thinking Schools Academy Trust (TSAT)?
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.
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 Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. As per Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE), we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates. If you have any questions regarding this process, please email .
What you need to do now:
We strongly encourage anyone who may be interested in working at our school to contact Sara Robotham, HR & Payroll Officer, by emailing to arrange an informal conversation about the role.
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.