Learning Support Assistant

Make a difference every day - join our fantastic team at Orchard Head!

A rewarding role at the heart of our school community 

Join our friendly team at Orchard Head! 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: 

• Fixed term contract with an end date of 31 August 2027   

• 30 hours per week 

• Monday to Friday 

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

Ready to apply? 

To apply, complete an application form via our website. 

About Orchard Head J, I & N School 

Orchard Head is a caring and friendly school where children are polite, enthusiastic and lovely to work with. We’re proud of our strong academic results, but just as proud of the warm, supportive atmosphere that helps every child grow in confidence and enjoy their time at school. 

Our staff often talk about how valued and supported they feel, and how positive and welcoming the school community is. Orchard Head is a place where teamwork really matters and where everyone plays a part in helping children have the best school experience. 

If you enjoy working with children and want to join a kind, supportive team, Orchard Head is a fantastic place to be. 

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: 

• 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 have provided staff with three Everyday Development (EDD) days, the next is on Monday 20 July 2026. 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, increasing to 31 days after 5 years' service – 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 eye care 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. 

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.  

Further information  

• Contact us on 01977 723495 or email recruitment@orchardhead.patrust.org.uk