Learning Support Assistant

'Are you passionate about education and eager to make a lasting impact on young minds?’  

About the role 

We are seeking an enthusiastic, hardworking, motivated Learning Support Assistant to become part of our team at Halfpenny Lane Junior, Infant and Nursery School. We are looking for someone with a proactive 'can-do' attitude and a passion for doing whatever it takes. Beyond that, we are looking for an individual who demonstrates the potential to excel in their role.  

The successful candidate will be responsible for:  

• supporting pupil’s learning and attending to pupils’ personal needs in order to support teaching and learning in the classroom and across the school. 
• supporting the preparation, planning and implementation of individual and group learning activities and intervention programmes across the school.  
• There may also be times when you are required to work with pupils who have additional needs. 

The role is 27.5 hours per week, term time plus two days, permanent contract, equating to 192 working days per annum. 

Halfpenny Lane Junior, Infant & Nursery School 

Halfpenny Lane Junior, Infant & Nursery School embodies academic and pastoral excellence, guided by the mantra 'Strive to be the best version of yourself'. With an 88% combined achievement rate in reading, writing, and maths at Key Stage 2, we ranked in the top 5% of primary schools nationally. Our dedicated staff upholds highest standards and expectations, fostering a positive culture and ensuring every child reaches their full potential and achieves exceptionally well. Securing the 105th spot in the 2024 'Times Top 500 Primary Schools in England' list, further cements our position among the top primary schools in the country. At our larger-than-average, two-form-entry school, we provide every child with the opportunities to thrive in an environment of high ambition and support, whilst equipping them with the life skills they will require to succeed in the future. 

About Pontefract Academies Trust  

Pontefract Academies Trust is a cross phase Multi-Academy Trust comprising of nine schools: seven primaries and two 11-16 secondary schools. Our mission is running high quality, high achieving schools that give our children and young people the chance in life they deserve. The Trust is renowned for its commitment to excellence and has achieved remarkable success. Five of our primary schools rank within the top 1% nationally for progress, and our secondary schools feature among the top three secondary schools in the Wakefield district.  

What can we offer you?  

We’re passionate about employee benefits at Pontefract Academies Trust, offering the following as standard to all:  

• Exciting career and leadership pathways supported by outstanding CPD opportunities 
• Everyday Development (EDD) Framework: A simple, personal and flexible goal-based approach to continuous learning, career growth and wellbeing. 
• For the 2025/26 academic year, we will be providing staff with three Everyday Development (EDD) days.  These development days will offer you self-directed time away from the workplace to recharge and reflect on your personal and career goals. 
• Generous employer pension (West Yorkshire Pension Fund - LGPS) 
• Generous annual leave entitlements paid as part of your annual salary (starting from 26 days annual leave, up to a maximum of 33 days dependent on length of service and grade of role – plus 8 statutory bank holidays) 
• Fantastic family friendly policies with a focus on employee work/life balance 
• Cycle to work scheme 
• Blue Light card 
• Discounted gym membership   
• Free eyecare via Specsavers  
• Childcare vouchers  
• Employee wellbeing programme (including physiotherapy, personal or professional concerns on legal, health, finance, wellbeing, and other matters) 
• Discounts at numerous retailers including O2  
• Free flu vaccinations. 

School Visits 

Potential candidates are welcome to visit our school. This is a great opportunity to explore our facilities, meet our dedicated staff, and get a feel for the vibrant community we have built here. We look forward to welcoming you and answering any questions you may have   

Key Dates 

• Application Deadline: 10:00am, Friday 11th July 2025 
• Interviews to be held: TBC 
• Start date: Monday 1st September 2025 

Application Process 

• Complete an application form via our website 

Important Links 

Pontefract Academies Trust website

Trust Strategic Plan for 2025 to 2028

Halfpenny Lane J,I&N School Website

Contact Information 

• Tel 01977 703270   
• Email recruitment@halfpenny.patrust.org.uk 

We are an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from everyone.  

The Pontefract Academies Trust is wholly committed to the safeguarding of all children and young people whilst promoting their welfare.  

Any offer of employment will be subject to receipt of a satisfactory DBS Enhanced Disclosure and pre-employment checks (including online checks). Shortlisted applicants will also be asked to provide a self-declaration form.