Learning Support Assistant (Maternity Cover)
Paignton Academy, Paignton, Devon, TQ3 3WA11 days remaining to apply
Start date details
September 2026
Closing date
29 June 2026 at 11:59pm
Date listed
18 June 2026
Job details
Job role
- Learning support or cover supervisor
Visa sponsorship
- Visas cannot be sponsored
Working pattern
- Part time
Contract type
- Fixed term - TBC - Maternity or parental leave cover
Actual salary
- £16,424 - £18,339 (£25,077 - £28,001 FTE)
What skills and experience we're looking for
Paignton Academy is seeking to appoint a dedicated Learning Support Assistant on a maternity cover basis, working across our sites at Borough Road and Waterleat Road.
This is a rewarding opportunity to support students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), helping them to achieve their full potential both academically and socially.
About the Role
As a Learning Support Assistant, you will work closely with teaching staff and the Learning Support Coordinator to support the learning and development of named students. You will play a key role in helping students access the curriculum, engage in lessons, and make expected levels of progress.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide tailored support to individual students or small groups, as directed
- Assist in the delivery of planned learning activities and interventions
- Support students’ academic progress as well as their social and emotional development
- Help create an inclusive and supportive classroom environment
- Work collaboratively with teachers, SEND staff, and pastoral teams
- Monitor and report on student progress and wellbeing
We are looking for someone who:
- Has experience working with children or young people (school-based experience desirable)
- Is committed to supporting students with SEND to achieve positive outcomes
- Is enthusiastic, patient, empathetic, and approachable
- Has strong communication and teamwork skills
- Is organised, reliable, and able to use their initiative
- Can build positive, professional relationships with students and colleagues
This is offered on a Fixed Term basis covering maternity leave.
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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