At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students and teachers to create a positive learning environment.
- Company: Join Ark Charter Academy, a vibrant school in Portsmouth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, and wellbeing-focused inset days.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional growth and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and help shape future leaders.
- Qualifications: Experience in secondary education and a passion for supporting students.
The predicted salary is between 24795 - 26402 £ per year.
About the Role
Location: Southsea, Portsmouth
Contract: Fixed Term Contract until 17/07/2026
Reporting to: SENCO
Salary: £24,795 - £26,402 (FTE) £21,322.70 - £22,705.72 (actual)
Working pattern: Term Time Only, 36hrs per week
As a Learning Support Assistant, you will support pupils, parents, and teachers, to establish a supportive learning environment in which children make good academic progress. You will be instrumental in our mission to provide every student, regardless of their background, a great education and real choices in life.
We are seeking ambitious and forward-thinking Learning Support Assistants to help realise our ambitious vision and make Charter a world class school. You will have significant skills, drive and a proven track record of having had impact in a secondary setting. You will understand the importance of working hard. In return you will work in partnership with our newly appointed Principal, Christian Down, a highly successful local Principal.
Benefits
- Salaries 2.5% higher than main pay scale.
- 10 inset days (of which at least one is dedicated to staff wellbeing).
- A behaviour policy that ensures disruption-free learning.
- Development opportunities for future leaders.
- Generous pension scheme.
- Up to £3,000 relocation costs to move to the south coast (dependent on the role).
- Access to Ark rewards – a scheme offering savings from over 3,000 major retailers.
- Interest-free loans – up to £5,000 available for season ticket or to buy a bicycle.
- Gym discounts – offering up to 40%.
- Access to Employee Assistance Programme – providing free, confidential counselling, legal advice and a range of different support.
Ark Charter Academy is a happy and vibrant school located in the heart of Portsmouth. We believe that every young person should feel a sense of belonging to our school community and enjoy their learning. We inspire and support our students so they can become the very best they can in every single way. With love and care, we develop motivation both inside and outside the classroom, encouraging an appetite for learning in a safe and stimulating Christian environment. We want our students to become the leaders and game-changers of the future. To achieve this we offer an academic curriculum that strives to expose all pupils to the richness of education, allowing them to experience a diversity of subjects during their time with us. Our teachers and support staff work hard every day to inspire each and every student to develop skills which will help them to achieve their full potential. We pride ourselves in recognising hard work and rewarding it accordingly, providing opportunities for professional and personal growth in school and across the wider Ark network.
Diversity and inclusion
We aim to build a diverse and inclusive organisation where everyone – staff and students – can do their best work and achieve their full potential. We want to reflect and represent diverse perspectives across our organisation because we know that doing so will make us stronger and more effective.
Safeguarding statement
Ark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in its academies. In order to meet this responsibility, its academies follow a rigorous selection process to discourage and screen out unsuitable applicants. Ark requires all employees to undertake an enhanced DBS check. You are required, before appointment, to disclose any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975. Non-disclosure may lead to termination of employment. However, disclosure of a criminal background will not necessarily debar you from employment - this will depend upon the nature of the offence(s) and when they occurred.
Please note we will be reviewing applications on an on-going basis and this role may close earlier than advertised depending on the level of response. We strongly encourage to submit your application at your earliest convenience.
Learning Support Assistant employer: ARK
Ark in Highgate is an exceptional employer that prioritises the development of its staff while fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture. Employees benefit from ongoing professional growth opportunities, collaborative teamwork, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. Located in a vibrant community, Ark offers a rewarding environment where dedication and compassion are valued and encouraged.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Support Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Ark Charter Academy on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Ark's values and mission. Show us how your passion for education aligns with our vision to create a supportive learning environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions, especially those related to supporting students with diverse needs. We want to see your skills in action, so be ready to share examples from your experience!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Learning Support Assistant role. Highlight any relevant experience you have in supporting students and creating a positive learning environment.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for education and supporting young people shine through in your written application. We want to see your commitment to helping every student achieve their potential, so share examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon, making it easy for us to understand your qualifications and motivations. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. This ensures that your application is received promptly and allows us to process it efficiently. Plus, you can easily find all the information you need about the role and our school!
How to prepare for a job interview at ARK
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Learning Support Assistant. Understand how you can support pupils, parents, and teachers to create a positive learning environment. Be ready to share examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to make an impact in a secondary setting.
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Express your enthusiasm for helping students achieve their full potential. Talk about why you believe every child deserves a great education and how you can contribute to that mission at Ark Charter Academy. This will resonate well with the interviewers who are looking for candidates aligned with their values.
✨Prepare for Behaviour Management Questions
Since the role involves maintaining a disruption-free learning environment, be prepared to discuss your strategies for managing behaviour in the classroom. Think of specific situations where you successfully handled challenging behaviours and how you ensured a supportive atmosphere for all students.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's approach to professional development or how they support staff wellbeing. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.
