Learning Assistant

We are looking for a Learning Assistant to join our team at Medeshamstede Academy, with a particular interest or experience in supporting Key Stage 1 pupils. Experience working with young children, including in nursery settings, would be highly valued. The successful learning assistant will support the Class Teacher to carry out a range of activities to promote learning and development.  This will include working on a one to basis and in small groups as well as giving support to children with additional needs who may require physical intervention on occasion.

We are looking for someone who:

• keen to learn with a positive outlook
• able to work on your own initiative
• experienced in working with children
• able to work as part of a team
• willing to undertake training
• enthusiastic and have the skills to challenge and motivate all our pupils. You will need a good understanding of how to support children with additional needs, specifically ASD, in a special school setting. You will need to be able demonstrate you can develop trusting relationships, be caring, flexible and an excellent communicator.

A relevant NVQ or equivalent, along with previous experience special school or SEND experience and knowledge of pastoral interventions, safeguarding, social and emotional and communication support for pupils is advantageous. You will be joining a passionate group of colleagues who strive to achieve the best outcomes for pupils in all aspects of their lives.

About us:

The Medeshamstede Academy opened in a new building in June 2013 to provide education for students from 4- 16 years. We are an all through Academy in which our pupils have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) for communication and interaction with a diagnosis of Autism and/or SEMH as their main presenting need. We are looking for someone who can show enthusiasm and commitment to leading and developing our academy within their areas of direct responsibility. The Academy is on a rapid improvement journey and the new leadership team are working hard to ensure students receive the best education possible. More information can be found here: https://www.medeshamstedeacademy.org/b) In return we have multiple benefits for our talented and highly valued people: Alongside nationally agreed terms and conditions, we offer a generous benefits package. Here's a selection of what's on offer to our people in recognition of the huge difference they make to our children, their families and the communities we serve.

• Access to Benefit Hub - the world’s largest discount marketplace
• A free Wellbeing Gateway platform and mobile app
• A free, 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme - confidential & compassionate support when you need it
• Lease a brand‑new or pre‑loved hybrid vehicle through our Salary Sacrifice Car Scheme
• Train & qualify as a Mental Health First Aider. We aim to have a qualified Mental Health First Aider in each academy
• Supporting your professional development through CPD, Apprenticeships, Upskilling and Professional Review
• Generous public sector pension schemes for everyone
• Eye tests & Spectacles Discount
• Family friendly policies and time off for dependants
• Dedicated ECT support programme
• Access to savings in childcare costs
• Generous annual leave allocation
• Automatic pay progression
• Free parking on all sites
• Principles on workload & directed time for teaching staff
• Professional Supervision for Academy Leaders If this post attracts sufficient interest before the closing date, we may decide to close and interview this vacancy at an earlier date, so an early application is advised.

The Trust welcomes applications from all, irrespective of gender, marital status, disability, race, age or sexual orientation. All applicants must be able to provide evidence of their Right to Work in the UK prior to commencement of employment. As part of our need to comply with UK immigration rules, you will be required to provide Home Office stipulated documentation prior to interview.