Learning Support Assistant (Intimate Care)
Paignton Academy, Paignton, Devon, TQ3 3WA16 days remaining to apply
Start date details
As soon as possible
Closing date
29 March 2026 at 11:59pm
Date listed
13 March 2026
Job details
Job role
- Learning support or cover supervisor
Visa sponsorship
- Visas cannot be sponsored
Working pattern
- Part time: 29.33 hours per week, 38 weeks per year
Contract type
- Permanent
Actual salary
- £18,379 - £21,330 (£26,866 - £31,179 FTE)
What skills and experience we're looking for
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 postholder will work under the direction of the Learning Support Coordinator, 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.
What the school offers its staff
Why Join the Thinking Schools Academy Trust?
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.
Further information about the job
Commitment to safeguarding
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 DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates, if you have any questions regarding this process please email recruitment@tsatrust.org.uk
Applying for the job
Apply for the job by following the link below.
CVs will not be accepted for this application.
View advert on school website (opens in new tab)Additional documents
If you need these documents in an accessible format, please contact the school.
About Paignton Academy
- School type
- Academy, ages 11 to 16
- Education phase
- Secondary school
- School size
- 1582 pupils enrolled
- Age range
- 11 to 16
- Ofsted report
- View Ofsted report
- School website
- Paignton Academy website
- Email address
- tracy.pocock@tsatrust.org.uk
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.
Arranging a visit to Paignton Academy
To arrange a visit and increase the chance of a successful application email tracy.pocock@tsatrust.org.uk.
School location
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