Job Introduction
Knightwood Primary School is a welcoming, inclusive and ambitious school community where every child is valued, supported and encouraged to achieve their full potential. At the heart of our vision is a commitment to well-being, belonging and inclusion. We believe that children learn best when they feel safe, valued and connected, and we work hard to ensure that every child feels welcomed, understood and able to succeed.
Through our curriculum, relationships and support systems, we help children develop the confidence, resilience and understanding they need to thrive in school and beyond. Our values of kindness, curiosity and resilience, chosen by our children, staff, parents and governors, guide everything we do.
We are seeking a caring, patient and dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEN) Learning Support Assistant to join our supportive team. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a genuine difference to the lives of children with additional needs, helping them overcome barriers to learning, develop confidence and independence, and thrive as valued members of our school community.
Working closely with class teachers, the SENCO and other professionals, you will provide tailored support that enables pupils to access learning, build positive relationships and achieve success both academically and personally.
The successful candidate will:
- provide one-to-one and small-group support for pupils with a range of special educational needs;
- support pupils to access learning activities and achieve their individual targets;
- adapt resources and activities under the direction of the class teacher to meet pupils' individual needs;
- promote independence, resilience and positive learning behaviours;
- encourage pupils to remain engaged, motivated and confident in their learning;
- support pupils' communication, social interaction and emotional wellbeing;
- contribute to the delivery of interventions and targeted support programmes;
- work collaboratively with teachers, parents and external professionals to support pupil progress;
- observe, monitor and record progress, sharing information with teaching staff as appropriate;
- assist with personal care and intimate care where required, following school policies and training;
- supervise pupils during lessons, playtimes, lunchtimes, educational visits and other school activities;
- contribute positively to the wider life of the school; and
- follow all safeguarding, behaviour, confidentiality, health and safety and SEND procedures.
We are looking for someone who:
- is warm, friendly and genuinely puts children at the centre of everything they do;
- believes passionately in inclusive education and ensuring every child feels a sense of belonging;
- values diversity and promotes understanding, acceptance and respect for others;
- understands that children learn best when their emotional wellbeing is supported;
- has experience of supporting children with additional needs, or a willingness to develop expertise in this area;
- demonstrates strong oral and written communication skills;
- can build positive relationships with pupils, colleagues and families;
- can use initiative, think creatively and work flexibly;
- is committed to helping pupils develop confidence, resilience and independence;
- promotes inclusion and has high expectations for all pupils;
- is patient, calm and resilient when supporting children who may experience barriers to learning;
- is organised, reliable and able to work effectively as part of a team;
- is committed to inclusion, equality and safeguarding; and
- is willing to undertake training and continue developing their practice.
A Level 2 or Level 3 qualification in Supporting Teaching and Learning, Childcare or a related field would be desirable but is not essential. We are equally interested in candidates who share our values, are committed to inclusion and are eager to learn and develop professionally.
We can offer:
- a genuinely inclusive school community where every child is valued and supported;
- the opportunity to work in a school where wellbeing and belonging are at the heart of everything we do;
- enthusiastic children who embody our values of kindness, curiosity and resilience;
- a highly supportive and experienced staff team committed to inclusion and continuous improvement;
- opportunities for high-quality professional development and SEND training;
- colleagues who value teamwork, collaboration and professional growth;
- a positive school community where staff are valued and supported; and
- the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to children's lives every day.
Visits to the school are warmly welcomed and encouraged. We would be delighted to show you around and discuss the role further. To arrange a visit or request an application pack, please contact the school office on 023 8026 1900 or email adminoffice@knightwood.hants.sch.uk.
Safer Recruitment
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.
