At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with SEND and help them thrive in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join the inclusive community at Harris Primary Academy Crystal Palace.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and a commitment to staff wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives and inspire their learning journey.
- Qualifications: GCSE Level qualifications and a passion for supporting diverse learners.
The predicted salary is between 24060 - 24403 £ per year.
About Us
Harris Primary Academy Crystal Palace (HPACR) is a two-form entry school situated in Penge, which is part of the London Borough of Bromley. HPACR is an inclusive academy and we want every one of our children, from Nursery to Year 6, to have a truly happy experience at school. We strive to ensure that every pupil feels valued and safe. The children’s achievements are celebrated every day in their lessons and we are proud that they are kind, caring, self-assured and eager to learn. We believe that through expert teaching and support all children can achieve to a high standard. Ultimately, our aim is to make sure that our pupils leave us feeling that they have succeeded both academically and in the extracurricular aspects of school life. We want our pupils to be thoroughly prepared for the opportunities that secondary school will offer them.
HPACR is very much a community school. We know that a close partnership with parents is vital if children are to learn and grow as individuals. We therefore do all we can to keep parents informed and involved in all aspects of school life. If you would like to find out more about our school please do come and visit us and talk to as many children and staff as you can. We are very much looking forward to meeting you.
Summary
Inspire and transform learning with us at Harris Primary Academy Crystal Palace. We are currently looking to appoint a Learning Support Assistant to support children with SEND, on a fixed-term contract from September 2026 to August 2027. The actual salary for this role will be £24,060.29 - £24,403.33 (37.5 hours per week/38 weeks per year).
Main Areas of Responsibility
- Attending to the child's personal needs and implementing related personal programmes, including social, health, physical hygiene and welfare matters.
- Working with the class teacher and Inclusion Manager to support the implementation of person-centred planning and targets for SEND children.
- Liaising with appropriate external SEND or health professionals to ensure that advice on provision for individual SEND children is effectively implemented.
- Supervising and supporting SEND children ensuring their safety and access to learning.
- Establishing good relationships with all children, acting as a role model and being aware of and responding appropriately to individual needs.
- Promoting the inclusion and acceptance of all children.
As part of making reasonable adjustments, it will sometimes be necessary to direct LSAs to support children's intimate care needs in line with the academy Intimate Care Policy and to maintain their health, safety and personal dignity.
Qualifications & Experience
We would like to hear from you if you have:
- Qualifications to GCSE Level standard or equivalent.
- Knowledge and understanding of pupils with social and emotional difficulties that may impact upon their behaviour.
- Ability to communicate effectively and clearly both verbally and in writing.
- Knowledge of Microsoft software.
- Some knowledge of some of the social issues facing students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
For a full job description and person specification, please download the Job Pack.
Professional Development & Benefits
Our people are at the heart of our success. We have developed a strong culture of collaboration and best practice, with professional development and career planning at its centre. We invest in our staff with support, coaching, mentoring, and a wide range of top-quality training programmes delivered at every level. In addition to the opportunities for career development and progression, we also offer a competitive rewards and benefits package which includes our Harris Allowance for teachers on MPS/UPS, a Performance and Loyalty Bonus, Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions, a Wellbeing Cash Plan and many other benefits. Learn more about our benefits on our website.
Safeguarding Notice
The Harris Federation and all our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, references, an online search, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check will be completed.
Equal Opportunities
The Harris Federation is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We value the diversity of our staff and students, and everyone at the Harris Federation is equally valued and respected. We aim to be an inclusive employer that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment.
Next Steps
If you have any questions about this opportunity, please send us an email, or call to arrange a conversation. Before applying, please download the Job Pack for full details on the job responsibilities and person specification. This will be helpful for you when completing your application, and throughout the recruitment process. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible as we may interview and offer to a candidate before the closing date. Please note that we only accept applications submitted before the closing date via our careers website.
Learning Support Assistant in London employer: Harris Federation
Harris Primary Academy Crystal Palace is an exceptional employer that prioritises the professional development and well-being of its staff. With a strong culture of collaboration, we offer extensive training programmes and career progression opportunities, ensuring that our Learning Support Assistants are well-equipped to make a meaningful impact on the lives of our students. Located in the vibrant community of Penge, we foster an inclusive environment where every employee feels valued and supported, making it a truly rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Support Assistant in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a stroll around Harris Primary Academy Crystal Palace. Familiarise yourself with the environment and think about how you can contribute to their inclusive culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for supporting SEND children. During your interview, share specific examples of how you've helped children in the past. This will demonstrate your commitment and understanding of their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Ask questions! When you get the chance, inquire about the school's approach to inclusion and how they support their staff. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to be part of their community.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and serious about joining the team at HPACR.
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Assistant in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Pack Thoroughly:Before you start your application, make sure to download and read the Job Pack. It’s packed with all the details about the role and what we’re looking for, which will help you tailor your application to stand out.
Show Your Passion for Inclusion:In your application, let us know why you’re passionate about supporting children with SEND. Share any relevant experiences or insights that demonstrate your commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all students.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate a well-organised application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our careers website! It’s the only way we accept applications, and it ensures that your application gets to the right place without any hiccups.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harris Federation
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to understand the core values of Harris Primary Academy Crystal Palace. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to inclusivity and the importance they place on creating a safe and happy environment for all children. This will help you align your answers with their ethos.
✨Prepare Examples of Your Experience
Think of specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to support children with SEND. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented personal programmes or worked collaboratively with teachers and external professionals. Concrete examples will show your practical understanding of the role.
✨Show Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. During the interview, make sure to articulate your thoughts clearly and listen actively. You might be asked about how you would communicate with parents or other staff members, so be prepared to discuss your approach to building those relationships.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the professional development opportunities available or how the school supports its staff in dealing with challenging situations. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
