Learning Support Assistant (Intimate Care) in Paignton

Paignton Academy is seeking to expand its Learning Support team and is looking to appoint committed and enthusiastic Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) to provide specialist support for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This may include pupils with learning, behavioural, communication, social, sensory or physical needs.

This is a rewarding opportunity for motivated individuals who are passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of children and young people. The successful candidate will play a vital role in helping pupils access the curriculum, develop independence, and achieve their full potential.

Working under the direction of the Learning Support Coordinator, the postholder will provide targeted support to named SEND pupil(s). This will involve supporting learning within the classroom and contributing positively to pupils’ educational, social and emotional development.

We are looking for candidates who:

• Have experience of working with children or young people, ideally within a school or educational setting
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to improving educational and social outcomes for pupils
• Are empathetic, patient and approachable, with a genuine passion for supporting learning
• Work effectively as part of a team and build positive, professional relationships with pupils and staff

Intimate Care Responsibilities

The role may include providing intimate care for specific pupils, where required. Intimate care is defined as support with personal care tasks that most pupils would usually manage independently but are unable to do so due to physical disability, medical needs or special educational needs. This may include assistance with:

• Eating and drinking
• Dressing and toileting
• Personal hygiene
• Changing medical equipment, such as colostomy bags, where appropriate

All intimate care will be delivered in accordance with the school’s policies and safeguarding procedures, ensuring dignity, respect and sensitivity always. Full training and appropriate support will be provided.

At Paignton Academy, we focus on developing well-rounded students who excel academically and grow socially, emotionally, and morally. We inspire our students to be kind, resilient, and responsible, preparing them to face challenges and contribute positively to society.

Paignton Academy is on a significant improvement journey which was recognised in its most recent Ofsted report (December 2024): The school has redesigned its curriculum to be broad and ambitious. The knowledge pupils will learn is organised in a logical order. The impact of these improvements is evident in key stage 3, where pupils demonstrate they know and remember more of what they have been taught.

Since the previous inspection, the quality of provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) has improved. Pupils’ needs are identified quickly, and appropriate support is put in place. Teachers have a growing understanding of how to adapt their teaching successfully for the benefit of these pupils. The school ensures that pupils with SEND are included in the wider life of the school.

Pupils’ behaviour has improved. Lessons are calm and purposeful. The ‘speak up, speak out’ campaign has led to more pupils feeling confident to report concerns.

Why Paignton Academy?

• Strong Relationships: We value respectful connections between students, staff, and parents, working together to ensure student success.
• Love of Learning: We foster a passion for lifelong learning, helping students grow into curious, well-rounded individuals.
• Community & Pride: We instill pride in both our school and the local community, empowering students to make a positive impact.

If you’re passionate about shaping young lives and helping students reach their full potential, come join our team at Paignton Academy!

The Thinking Schools Academy Trust

The Thinking Schools Academy Trust is a family of schools consisting of both primary and secondary schools across the South West, South, South East, and East of England. We believe that every young person in our community deserves to have the best opportunities at life regardless of their individual circumstances. That’s why we invest in our people, so that our staff are best supported to positively impact our pupils.

Why Join the Thinking Schools Academy Trust?

• Competitive Pay Scales: Our TSAT pay scales exceed national levels.
• Performance Related Pay: We operate a Professional Growth policy that allows us to reward staff who meet their objectives with additional pay for exceptional performance.
• CPD: Our in-house training provision, Thinking Horizons, offers clear pathways for professional development including Chartered Teacher status, regular MAT meets to share best practice and range of external opportunities to enhance your development.
• Staff Wellbeing Focus: Access our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, free flu vaccinations, eye care vouchers and preferential access to Benenden Health.
• TSTARS Staff Recognition: You will be part of our Staff Recognition Programme, with seasonal rewards for all staff.
• Refer a Friend: Spread the word and benefit financially from our Refer a Friend Scheme.
• Blue Light Card: School staff can now access the Blue Light Card for discounts across a wide range of categories including holidays, cars, days out and much more!
• Convenient Parking: Park for free in our staff car park on-site.
• TSAT Benefits Portal: a one-stop shop benefits hub that gives you access to a range of exclusive benefits including employee discounts, dental cover, Cycle to Work Scheme and Discounted Gym Membership.

Next Steps

If you are interested in working at our school, benefitting from a supportive network of colleagues across our Trust, and are keen to progress your career then please apply today! Early applications are encouraged, and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a suitable candidate is found.

We strongly encourage anyone who may be interested in working at our school to contact Sara Robotham (HR & Payroll Officer) via email to arrange an informal conversation about the role.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates, if you have any questions regarding this process, please email recruitment@tsatrust.org.uk