Learning Assistant - Fixed Term 1st September 2026 to 21st July 2027

Job Description

We are looking for a Learning Assistant to join our team here at Purple Oaks Academy!

This is a great opportunity for someone wanting to develop a wide range of skills whilst working in a friendly and supportive environment. We’re looking for an exceptional Learning Support Assistant who:

understands that all behaviour is communication

is committed to supporting our students to communicate in a range of different ways

has excellent communication skills and can work effectively as part of a team

can use their initiative and professional curiosity when supporting children

has great organisational skills

has the ability to relate to and engage with a wide range of students

has the ability to ensure high standards in terms of achievement and engagement

has high aspirations for the children they are supporting

Training and support will be provided from a welcoming and professional team. If you think you have what it takes to work within this role, we look forward to hearing from you.

Experience of working with children with Special Educational Needs would be advantageous.

About us:

Purple Oaks Academy is a thriving special academy in the heart of Northampton. Our purpose-built building opened in January 2018 and currently provides 126 places for students (3-18) with a diagnosis of autism and/or Severe Learning Difficulties. Specialising in education for young people who may be autistic and have cognitive and sensory differences, we offer a carefully tailored curriculum and unconditional support that replaces trepidation with confidence and challenges with opportunities.

What really sets us apart though is the incredible diversity of our students - the only thing they have in common is their autism. Join us and you’ll get to know every one as an individual, due to our small classes of between six and ten. This enables us to build amazing relationships with each student, taking the time to understand their passions and priorities, while helping them to get wherever they want to be in ten years’ time.

Our outstanding facilities - including a newly refurbished sensory room, a large PE hall and dining room, food tech room, library and extensive outdoor space - provide an incredible environment in which to grow and learn.

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.

• A comprehensive package of benefits via our benefits marketplace
• A free digital wellbeing companion for all colleagues
• A free, 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme - confidential & compassionate support when you need it
• 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.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we expect all staff to share this commitment. All posts will be subject to receipt of satisfactory enhanced DBS disclosure, medical and reference checks. All pre-employment checks are in line with "Keeping Children Safe in Education”.

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.