Learning Support Assistant (Gap Year Student) in Macclesfield

Location: Macclesfield, Cheshire - Beech Hall School

Salary: Depending on experience

Hours: 40 hours per week

Contract: Fixed-Term | Full Time

Early applications are encouraged. We may interview and appoint before the advertised closing date.

About the School

Beech Hall is an all-ability independent school for boys and girls aged 5 to 18 years. Situated in a beautiful sixteen-acre site on the edge of the Peak District, housing two listed buildings, playing fields and swimming pool, Beech Hall provides a truly child‑centred approach to education. Small classes and a focus on the individual child mean that quality teaching and learning lead to success. However, we believe opportunities beyond the curriculum are just as important as those in the classroom as we seek to provide a truly unique curriculum for every child. At Beech Hall we have the highest standards of expectation for our children and the quality to which we believe they are entitled. This means that processes to ensure individual achievement are rigorous, and opportunities for pupils to participate in the widest variety of ways are multiple and varied.

The Role

To provide flexible support across the school, assisting pupils and staff to ensure a positive, safe and engaging learning environment. Working closely with teachers, the SEND team and wider school staff, the Learning Support Assistant (Gap Year Student) will support pupils both inside and outside the classroom, contribute to the school's co‑curricular programme and help with the day‑to‑day running of school activities. The role offers exposure to a wide range of school experiences, including classroom support, pastoral care, extracurricular activities, educational visits, sports fixtures and the school's breakfast club. The post holder will play an active role in supporting pupils' academic, social and emotional development while contributing positively to the wider life of the school.

Key Responsibilities

• Support pupils in lessons, individually and in small groups
• Assist teachers with learning activities and classroom preparation
• Provide additional support to pupils with SEND where required
• Promote positive behaviour and pupil wellbeing
• Supervise pupils during breakfast club, breaktimes and lunchtimes
• Help maintain a safe, inclusive and engaging learning environment
• Build positive relationships with pupils, staff and parents
• Contribute to the wider life of the school and act as a positive role model
• Support pupils during educational visits, residential trips, Duke of Edinburgh expeditions and sporting fixtures
• Provide feedback to teachers and relevant staff regarding pupil progress, wellbeing and engagement
• Attend meetings and training sessions as required
• Support the wider pastoral and operational needs of the school as required

About You

Skills and Experience

• GCSE Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent) in English and Maths
• Experience of working with children or young people in a school, sporting, coaching, youth work or similar setting
• Previous experience as a Learning Support Assistant or Teaching Assistant is desirable
• Ability to build positive relationships with children and young people
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Flexible, proactive and willing to assist wherever required
• Positive approach to supporting pupils' learning and wellbeing
• Ability to remain calm, organised and professional in a busy school environment
• Good literacy and numeracy skills
• An understanding of the importance of confidentiality and safeguarding

Knowledge and Understanding

• Understanding of safeguarding and child protection responsibilities
• Aware of pupil wellbeing and inclusion
• Understanding of positive behaviour management approaches
• Knowledge of health and safety and safe working practices

What can you expect from Beech Hall School and Blenheim Schools?

• The salary for this role will be commensurate with the appointee's experience
• A beautiful school set in 16 acres of land, with a mix of traditional and modern teaching facilities
• Twice‑weekly morning staff briefings in which pupils are at the heart of our discussions
• Excellent transport links to both Manchester and London
• The opportunity to take part in the wider community of the school
• Receptive and supportive Senior Leadership Team and outstanding support from both Blenheim and Outcomes First's team of experienced Directors and other leaders
• Friendly and supportive colleagues
• Open and positive working environment in which hard work and commitment are valued to the highest degree
• Free use of the school's fitness suite and swimming pool
• Lunch and tea/coffee
• On‑site parking
• Fee remission

Safeguarding Commitment

The post-holder is responsible for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children and young people for whom they are responsible, or with whom they come into contact, and will adhere to and ensure compliance with the school's Safeguarding (Child Protection) Policy at all times. If, in the course of carrying out the duties of the post, the post-holder becomes aware of any actual or potential risks to the safety or welfare of children in the school, they must report any concerns to the school's Designated Safeguarding Lead or to the Headmaster.