Purple Oaks Academy, a special academy for 3 to 18 year olds with autism and/or severe learning difficulties, is recruiting a fixed-term Learning Assistant from November 2026 to July 2027. The post centres on helping students communicate in a range of ways, on the view that all behaviour is communication. Classes of six to ten suit a role shaped around each student's individual needs and sensory differences, over 37 hours a week for 39 weeks a year. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.
What the job involves
- Support students to communicate in a range of different ways
- Support children with initiative and professional curiosity
- Help students reach high standards of achievement and engagement
- Build relationships with each student as an individual
- Work as part of a team
Skills & knowledge
- Understanding that all behaviour is communication
- Commitment to supporting students to communicate in different ways
- Excellent communication skills
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
- Use of initiative and professional curiosity
- Strong organisational skills
Checks & eligibility
- Enhanced DBS disclosure
- Satisfactory medical check
- Satisfactory references
- Right to work in the UK, evidenced before employment starts
Other
- Ability to relate to and engage a wide range of students
- Commitment to high standards of achievement and engagement
- High aspirations for the children supported
Nice to have
- Experience of working with children with special educational needs
What's offered
- Generous public sector pension
- Generous annual leave allocation
- Automatic pay progression
- Free 24/7 employee assistance programme
- Free digital wellbeing companion
- CPD, apprenticeships and professional review
- Family friendly policies and time off for dependants
- Comprehensive benefits marketplace
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Learning Assistant - Fixed Term 2nd November 2026 to 21st July 2027 in Nottingham employer: Purple Oaks Academy
Purple Oaks Academy is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its staff while fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture. Located in Northampton, the academy offers unique opportunities for professional advancement, collaboration with dedicated colleagues, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students with autism. With a focus on community engagement and high-quality education, working here means being part of a passionate team committed to empowering learners and their families.
