Learning Support Assistant (SEN) Fixed Term Contract

‘Are you passionate about making a real difference in children’s lives?’ 

Join our dedicated team at Halfpenny Lane and help shape the future of young learners through meaningful support and care.  

Salary: £25,583 - £25,989 FTE per annum 

Actual Salary: £16,081 - £16,336 per annum 

Contract: Fixed term until 31st August 2026, 27.5 hours per week, term time plus two days (192 working days per year) 

Start Date: October 2025 

Application Deadline: 10:00am, Wednesday 24th September 2025 

Interview Date: TBC  

About the role 

We’re seeking a fantastic Learning Support Assistant (SEN) who is enthusiastic, compassionate, and ready to go the extra mile to support pupils with special educational needs.  This is a rewarding opportunity to work closely with children, helping them thrive both academically and personally.     

As a Learning Support Assistant, you will: 

• Provide tailored support to individual pupils and small groups 
• Assist with learning activities and interventions across the school. 
• Support pupils’ personal needs to ensure a safe and inclusive learning environment. 
• Work collaboratively with teaching and support staff to enhance pupil development 
• Help maintain a positive and constructive classroom atmosphere, responding to behaviour in line with school policies. 

What we’re looking for 

To be successful, you’ll need: 

• Experience working with or caring for children or young people 
• A warm, approachable manner and strong communication skills. 
• The ability to work effectively as part of a team 
• A genuine passion for helping children overcome challenges and reach their full potential 

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 the 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:  

• 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. 
• Everyday Development (EDD) Framework: A simple, personal and flexible goal-based approach to continuous learning, career growth and wellbeing. 
• Exciting career and leadership pathways supported by outstanding CPD opportunities 
• Generous employer pension (West Yorkshire Pension Fund - LGPS) 
• Generous annual leave entitlements paid as part of your annual salary (26 - 33 days based on service and grade) + 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. 

Next steps

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   

Application Process 

• Complete an application form via our website: www.pontefractacademiestrust.org.uk 

Important Links 

Pontefract Academies Trust website www.pontefractacademiestrust.org.uk/ 

Trust Strategic Plan for 2025 to 2028 www.pontefractacademiestrust.org.uk/strategy2025-2028/ 

Northfield Primary School Website https://northfield.patrust.org.uk/ 

Contact Information 

• Tel 01977 651291 
• 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.