At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with complex needs in a nurturing learning environment.
- Company: Ark Ayrton Primary Academy, a vibrant school in Portsmouth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, and access to professional development.
- Other info: Join a friendly team with regular socials and opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Passion for education and ability to support diverse learning needs.
The predicted salary is between 23101 - 23402 € per year.
Location: Ark Ayrton Primary Academy
Salary: Ark Schools Band 2: Actual Salary £23,101 to £23,402 (FTE £24,482 to £24,795)
Address: Somers Road, Southsea, PO5 4LS
Contract: 1 Year Fixed Term – September Start
Working Pattern: 39.5 hours, Term Time Only
Closing date: Monday 22nd June 2026
The Role
In this role you will support the engagement, learning and wellbeing of pupils with complex needs, including social, emotional, mental health, behavioural, communication and learning needs. You will work closely with pupils who are unable to access mainstream provision, including those educated at Hartland Point, a stage-not-age provision designed to meet children at their developmental level. You will support pupils, parents, teachers and the wider school team to establish a nurturing, structured and responsive learning environment, enabling children to make progress academically, socially and emotionally, in line with their Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
Key responsibilities:
- To support individual pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups, including pupils attending Hartland Point, to help them engage in learning and make progress across the curriculum.
- To work flexibly across a stage-not-age provision, adapting learning approaches to meet individual developmental needs rather than chronological age.
- To support the implementation of EHCP targets, working closely with the class teacher, SENCO, Room Leader and external professionals.
- To deliver targeted interventions, including programmes linked to Speech and Language Therapy (SALT), following guidance from qualified therapists.
- To support teachers, parents and colleagues in creating a consistent, calm and purposeful learning environment.
- To supervise pupils on the playground, in classrooms and in the dining hall during lunchtimes.
- To attend a weekly dedicated planning session (30 minutes) with the class teacher.
- To facilitate or co-facilitate an enrichment activity for pupils once a week after school.
We can offer you:
- Opportunities to visit other practices and learn from a variety of practitioners.
- Supportive network of staff around you.
- Sociable and friendly staff with regular staff socials.
- CPD opportunities through the Art Network.
- A chance to make a difference.
- A well-resourced school that provides children with an opportunity to excel in all curriculum areas.
- Generous pension scheme.
- Access to Employee Assistance Programme – providing free, confidential counselling, legal advice and a range of different support.
About us:
Ark Ayrton are a two-form entry primary school and nursery, situated in the heart of Portsmouth, close to the sea. We have high expectations of our children and for our children of what they can achieve. Our priorities are to ensure all children are here, safe, happy and learning well at all times. This means we also have high expectations of ourselves, our parents and carers and the other people who work with us in improving outcomes for our children. We work closely with our partners and challenge each other openly and honestly to be sure we never lose sight of the vision and the job to be done in achieving excellence for all. We have a strong and dedicated staff team at Ayrton - all ready to provide the best education and environment for the children to thrive in every day. We have a bespoke Curriculum, written by us for our children and we are passionate and relentless in ensuring that there is something for everyone at Ark Ayrton. We have been graded as ‘Good’ in all areas by Ofsted and as part of the Ark network of schools, we are committed to making sure that every child has access to a great education and real choices in life.
If you would like to get a glimpse into life at Ark Ayrton, please visit our website or social media pages. Visits to school or telephone calls with our team are welcomed for any candidates wanting to find out more.
If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact Lauren Boxall at l.boxall@arkayrtonprimary.org.
How to apply:
To apply please visit https://arkayrtonprimary.org/jobs/vacancies and fill in the application form, all application forms must be submitted by Monday 22nd June 2026.
Ark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in our academies. In order to meet this responsibility, we follow a rigorous selection process which will include questions about safeguarding. This process is outlined here, but can be provided in more detail if requested. All successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check. This post is covered by Part 7 of the Immigration Act (2016) and therefore the ability to speak fluent English is an essential requirement for the role. 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 ongoing basis and this role may close earlier than advertised depending on the level of response. We strongly encourage you to submit your application at your earliest convenience.
Stage not Age Learning Support Assistant - Ark Ayrton Primary Academy in Portsmouth employer: Portsmouth City Council
Ark Ayrton Primary Academy is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and wellbeing of both its staff and students. With a supportive network of colleagues, opportunities for professional development, and a commitment to creating a nurturing learning environment, employees can truly make a difference in the lives of children with complex needs. Located in the vibrant community of Southsea, the academy offers a friendly work culture, generous benefits, and a chance to be part of a dedicated team striving for excellence in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Stage not Age Learning Support Assistant - Ark Ayrton Primary Academy in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, check out Ark Ayrton's website and social media. Familiarising yourself with their values and recent activities will help you connect during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when discussing how you can support pupils with complex needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! During the interview, share specific examples of how you've supported children in the past. Highlight your adaptability and commitment to creating a nurturing environment for all learners.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows you're keen and professional, which can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Stage not Age Learning Support Assistant - Ark Ayrton Primary Academy in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting children with complex needs shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Stage not Age Learning Support Assistant role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that align with our mission at Ark Ayrton.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This helps us understand your qualifications quickly!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can process your application efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at Portsmouth City Council
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Learning Support Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils with complex requirements and how you can support their learning and wellbeing. This will show that you're genuinely interested in the role and prepared to make a difference.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss any relevant experience you have, whether it's working with children, supporting individuals with special educational needs, or implementing tailored learning strategies. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've successfully engaged with students in the past, especially in challenging situations.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's approach to supporting pupils with complex needs, the team dynamics, and opportunities for professional development. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
Highlight your ability to work collaboratively with teachers, parents, and external professionals. Discuss how you can contribute to creating a calm and purposeful learning environment. Being a great communicator is key in this role, so be sure to convey your interpersonal skills during the interview.
