Learning Support Assistant (fixed term)

 Make a difference every day - join our fantastic team at Halfpenny Lane!  

A rewarding role at the heart of our school community 

Join our friendly team at Halfpenny Lane! We’re looking for a caring and enthusiastic Learning Support Assistant to support pupils in the classroom and help create a positive learning environment. Whether you’re new to working in education or looking for a fresh start, we’ll support you every step of the way with full training and support - no school experience required. 

What you’ll do: 

• Support pupils individually or in small groups 

• Assist teachers with learning activities, interventions and classroom tasks 

• Encourage positive pupil behaviour and active engagement in lessons 

• Support pupil’s wellbeing and promote inclusion across the school 

This role is perfect for someone who enjoys working with children, is patient and supportive, and wants to contribute to an inspiring and nurturing school environment. 

A role where you can truly make a difference 

This is a fantastic opportunity to become part of a compassionate and dedicated team who work together to ensure that learning is engaging and rewarding for all pupils.  If you are enthusiastic, reliable and committed to helping pupils achieve their best, we would love to hear from you.   

Contract details: 

• 12 months fixed term contract with an end date of 22 July 2027   

• 27.5 hours per week 

• Term time plus 2 days (192 working days per year) 

• Monday - Friday to be worked between the hours of 8:30 to 3:30 final times to be discussed at interview.  

Ready to apply? 

To apply, complete an application form via our website. 

About Halfpenny Lane Junior, Infant & Nursery School  

At Halfpenny Lane Junior, Infant & Nursery School, we don’t just strive for excellence - we live it every day. Recently judged ‘Outstanding in all areas’, our school is ranked in the top 5% nationally for pupil achievement. But what truly sets us apart is our culture: a supportive, ambitious environment where staff feel valued and empowered to make a real difference.   

As part of Pontefract Academies Trust, one of the top-performing trusts in the country, we offer fantastic opportunities for professional growth. 88% of our staff recommend us as a great place to work, and 98% would recommend our school to parents - a testament to our positive, collaborative ethos.  

If you’re passionate about helping children thrive and want to work in a school where your contribution is celebrated, Halfpenny Lane is the place for you.  

For further information about our school, please visit our website. 

What can we offer you? 
Be part of a team that values your wellbeing, development and work–life balance. As a member of our school community, you’ll benefit from: 

• Pension scheme: Access to the West Yorkshire Pension Fund with a generous employer contribution. 

• Training and development: Supportive on-the-job training and opportunities to develop your skills and confidence working with children. 

• Wellbeing support: Free flu vaccinations, free eyecare via Specsavers, and access to a wellbeing package offering physiotherapy and support for health, finance and personal matters. 

• Family friendly policies: Policies designed to support work–life balance, including flexible approaches to term‑time working. 

• Cycle to Work scheme: Savings on a bike and accessories while promoting a healthy, greener commute. 

• Discounts and rewards: Access to discounts including Blue Light Card, gym memberships and major retailers. 

You can find more information about staff benefits and what it’s like to work with us in the ‘Working for Us’ booklet and on our website. 

About Pontefract Academies Trust   

Pontefract Academies Trust is a cross-phase multi-academy trust comprising of nine local schools: seven primary and two secondary, committed to providing the very best education for our children.   

We are also excited to be merging with Ark Schools on 1 September 2026. This partnership will strengthen the support we offer our pupils and staff, while creating new opportunities for collaboration and professional development across both trusts. Please click here to find out more about the Pontefract Academies Trust and Ark Schools merger. 

We are proud of the positive culture across our schools. In the 2025 Edurio Staff Survey, we were ranked in the top 10 trusts nationally for staff satisfaction and received several awards recognising our supportive and values driven working environment. Our staff tell us they feel valued, listened to and part of a team that makes a real difference every day. 

We’re excited for the future and hope you’ll consider joining us as we continue to grow.  

Key dates

• Start date: Wednesday 01 July 2026 

• Application deadline: 10:00, Monday 01 June 2026  

• Interview date: To be confirmed 

For more information 

Please contact us at recruitment@halfpenny.patrust.org.uk or call 01977 703270 

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

Pontefract Academies Trust is wholly committed to ensuring children and young people are fully supported and safe. We are dedicated 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.