Learning Support Assistant 1:1

About the School

Akeley Wood School is a dynamic and friendly place to work with opportunities for professional development. We educate around 700 children across three campuses and have a progressive approach to teaching and learning. We strive for a holistic education at Akeley Wood and achieve this through a supportive environment and diverse breadth of learning and development within our School.

About Cognita

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of more than 100 schools in 21 countries – in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East – serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

Role Summary

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate individual to support one of our pupils with additional needs, working closely with the SENDCo Lead, Inclusion Lead, and Class Teachers to enhance progress and raise achievement across all areas of the curriculum. This role involves delivering tailored provision both inside and outside the classroom, contributing meaningfully to the pupil’s academic, social, emotional, and physical development. You will implement strategies outlined in EHCPs and Support Plans, promote positive behaviour in line with school policy, and help adapt learning materials to ensure accessibility. The successful candidate will build strong relationships with the pupil and their family, safeguard their wellbeing, and actively participate in school life – including extra‑curricular activities, trips, and events. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference, working as part of a supportive teaching and learning team committed to inclusion and excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Support one or more pupils with SEN, delivering tailored provision inside and outside classroom.
• Implement strategies outlined in EHCPs and Support Plans.
• Promote positive behaviour in line with school policy.
• Adapt learning materials to ensure accessibility.
• Build strong relationships with pupils, families and staff.
• Safeguard wellbeing and contribute to school life (extra‑curricular activities, trips, events).

Qualifications & Experience

• Experience working in educational environments, particularly with children who have SEN.
• Strong ability to engage and communicate effectively with young children, teachers, and parents.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Understanding of safeguarding in schools, health and safety, data protection, race relations, and confidentiality.
• Familiarity with the SEND Code of Practice and strategies to support children with additional needs.
• Personal integrity, honesty, energy, and enthusiasm; flexible, empathetic, open‑minded, reflective, and adaptable.
• Willingly contribute to wider life of the school and prioritise effectively.

Benefits at Cognita

• Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
• Aviva Pension Scheme
• Enhanced maternity/paternity/adoption leave
• Access to My Staff Shop – thousands of savings across the year
• Cycle to Work scheme, operated through My Staff Shop
• 24/7 wellbeing support through Cognita Care First, an Employee Assistance Program
• Free school lunches
• A discount on fees for children at Akeley Wood School
• Professional Development

How to Apply

Complete this application before the closing date: Sunday 23rd November 2025. Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background. Early applications are encouraged; we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date.