Learning Support Assistant (Specialist Support for a Deaf Student) TA2, Points 5 – 6, £25,583 - £25,989 FTE, £14,848 - £15,084 per annum for 25 hours per week, and term-time only. 25 hours per week, fixed-term contract (linked to a named EHCP student). Term-time only plus a proportion of 8 Professional Development Days. Monday – Friday 9.15am – 3.15pm (includes 2 breaks totalling 1 hour) We are seeking to appoint a Learning Support Assistant to provide dedicated one-to-one support for a deaf student with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), ensuring full access to learning, communication, and the wider school environment. The post holder will work closely with teaching staff, the SENDCo, and other specialists to assist with hearing technology, implement effective classroom communication strategies, and adapt learning materials to promote understanding and independence. Additionally, they will support the student’s emotional wellbeing by recognising signs of anxiety, overwhelm or agitation and encouraging self-advocacy. The ideal candidate will have a good working knowledge of the education system and experience supporting young people, particularly those with EHCPs. They should hold Level 2 qualifications or demonstrate good literacy and numeracy skills, with a willingness to develop further through training. Excellent communication skills with pupils, staff, and parents are essential, as are strong organisational abilities and proficiency in ICT for record keeping and reporting. The candidate must be patient, calm, flexible, and resilient, capable of managing challenging behaviour sensitively while maintaining professionalism, confidentiality, and a strong commitment to inclusion and equality. They should be able to work both independently and collaboratively within a team. For further details, please see the Job Description and Person Specification attached on this advert, and visit our school website. Working hours and terms: 25 hours per week, Monday – Friday 9.15am – 3.15pm (includes 2 breaks totalling 1 hour). Fixed-term contract (linked to a named EHCP student). Term-time only plus a proportion of 8 Professional Development Days. Salary: TA2, SCP5-6 £25,583 - £25,989 FTE. £14,848 - £15,084 pro-rated to 25 hours per week, and term-time only. No SEN Allowance. Start date: As soon as possible. To apply: To apply, please complete our application form (attached below) and email to Moons@hanleycastlehs.org.uk. If you have any queries, please email or contact HR on 01684 595673. The closing date is Monday 5th January 2026. Early applications are encouraged and we reserve the right to close the vacancy earlier if a suitable candidate is found. Benefits: Secure pension with Local Government Pension Scheme Access to a cycle to work scheme Free on-site parking Free access to Westfield Health, Healthy Extras providing: 24/7 telephone access to a practising UK GP 24 Hour Advice & Information Line (including structured counselling sessions) Eldercare Advice Discounts and offers at hundreds of retailers, restaurants and destinations Gym discounts Further information: Hanley Castle is a dynamic and pleasantly situated high performing Academy, which is justifiably proud of its local and national reputation for academic excellence. Founded in 1326, the school provides a unique blend of academic rigour, modern facilities and traditional values. The school is heavily oversubscribed and our Sixth Form is flourishing. Hanley Castle High School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and as such expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to undertake pre-employment checks including an Enhanced Disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service. Online searches are now undertaken on all shortlisted candidates, for safeguarding suitability, as part of the due diligence. References are obtained, before interview wherever possible, which include specific enquiries about the applicant's background in relation to safeguarding. Further details, please see the Job Description and Person Specification attached on this advert, and visit our school website.