At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teachers and assist students with special educational needs in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join Addington School, an outstanding special school with a focus on community and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, local government pension, free parking, and staff wellbeing initiatives.
- Other info: Part-time role during term time with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with special needs while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience supporting children with special educational needs is preferred.
The predicted salary is between 17503 - 17881 € per year.
Job details:
- Salary: £17,503 - £17,781 per annum plus £1,052 SEN Allowance per annum
- Contractual hours: 30
- Basis: Part time
- Region: Term Time Only / Permanent / Part-Time
- Job category/type: Early Years Services, Education, Schools, Youth Work
- Date posted: 18/05/2026
- Job reference: SCH3431
- Required from: September 2026
- 30 hours per week, term time only plus 2 INSET days
- Monday: 8.50 - 4.15, Tuesday to Friday: 8.50 - 3.25
Addington School is part of the Ascendancy Partnership Trust, a multi-academy trust with deep community roots across the Berkshire area composed of a family of SEN schools all specialising in learning difficulties. Our main school site is located in Woodley, Reading and we also have a smaller Early Years Centre located in Farley Hill.
Benefits:
- The opportunity to work in a special school judged outstanding with a highly experienced Senior Leadership Team
- An environment committed to staff development and growing leadership
- A school with a coaching and collaborative culture
- Membership of an inclusive learning community with SEND expertise
- A school where creativity and innovation is encouraged
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Free Car Parking
- Staff Wellbeing Group
- Flu Vaccinations
- Access to Private Medical Scheme
Addington School offers an environment committed to staff development and a route into teaching for candidates looking for a stepping stone onto the SEND teacher ladder.
Responsibilities:
- Providing support to the Class Teacher
- Assisting with the general management of pupils
- Preparing the classroom and setting out resources
- Supporting with pupils’ individual needs providing a bespoke environment for the children to learn
- Supporting with the management of pupils with behaviour difficulties and implementing behaviour management plans when required
We cater for pupils aged 3 - 19 years with special educational needs and disabilities across two sites located in Woodley and Farley Hill. We currently have vacancies available at our main site in Woodley and are interested in hearing from applicants with previous experience of supporting children and young people with special educational needs.
Please contact Amanda Cherry, HR Manager on 0118 966 9073 if you wish to discuss further.
Commitment:
We welcome applications from all sections of the community. Addington School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All employees of Addington School are required to undergo safeguarding checks which will include reference checks and enhanced DBS check. Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK.
Learning Support Assistants - Woodley - Addington School in Reading employer: Reading Borough Council
Addington School, located in Woodley, Reading, is an outstanding special school that prioritises staff development and offers a supportive environment for Learning Support Assistants. With a strong focus on collaboration and creativity, employees benefit from a comprehensive Local Government Pension Scheme, free car parking, and access to private medical schemes, all while being part of a dedicated community committed to enhancing the educational experience for children with special educational needs. This role not only provides meaningful work but also serves as a stepping stone for those aspiring to advance in the field of SEND education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Support Assistants - Woodley - Addington School in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have experience with special educational needs. They might know about opportunities at Addington School or can give you insider tips on the application process.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Addington School and its values. Understand their commitment to staff development and how they support pupils with SEND. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to supporting children with learning difficulties. Think about your past experiences and how they relate to the role of a Learning Support Assistant. We want you to feel confident and ready to shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that you’re proactive and serious about joining the Addington School team.
We think you need these skills to ace Learning Support Assistants - Woodley - Addington School in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Learning Support Assistant. We want to see how you can contribute to our amazing team at Addington School!
Show Your Passion for SEN:Let us know why you're passionate about working with children with special educational needs. Share any relevant experiences or insights that demonstrate your commitment to supporting their learning and development.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read, so make sure to organise your thoughts and avoid unnecessary jargon.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Reading Borough Council
✨Know Your SEN Basics
Familiarise yourself with the basics of special educational needs (SEN) and disabilities. Understand the specific challenges faced by children in this area, as well as the strategies that can help them thrive. This knowledge will show your commitment to supporting these students.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss any previous experience you have working with children or young people, especially those with learning difficulties. Prepare specific examples of how you've supported their learning or managed behaviour, as this will demonstrate your practical skills and understanding of the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's approach to teaching and supporting students with SEN. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the school’s values align with yours. Think about asking about their training opportunities or how they foster a collaborative culture.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Highlight your ability to work collaboratively with teachers and other staff members. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in a team to support students' needs. This is crucial in a school environment where teamwork is key to providing the best support for pupils.
