Learning Support Assistant (Intimate Care)
| Posting date: | 14 March 2026 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | Part time |
| Closing date: | 29 March 2026 |
| Location: | Paignton, Devon, TQ3 3WA |
| Company: | Teaching Vacancies |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 10ce4fe1-5f36-4830-83d8-828a8f944304 |
Summary
What skills and experience we're looking for
Paignton Academy is seeking to expand its Learning Support team and is looking to appoint dedicated Learning Support Assistants (LSAs)to provide specialist support to pupils with special education needs, for example, learning, behavioural, communication, social, sensory or physical difficulties.
This is a rewarding opportunity for enthusiastic and motivated individuals who are passionate about supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
The successful postholder will work under the direction of the Learning Support Coordinator, providing targeted support to named SEND pupil(s) to help them access the curriculum and achieve their expected levels of progress. This will include supporting learning within the classroom and contributing positively to pupils’ educational, social and emotional development.
We are looking for candidates who:
• Have proven experience of working with children or young people, ideally within a school or educational setting
• Can demonstrate a strong commitment to improving educational and social outcomes
• Are empathetic, patient and approachable, with a genuine passion for supporting pupils’ learning
• Work effectively as part of a team and build positive relationships with pupils and staff
The role will include providing intimate care for specific students, as required. Intimate care is defined as support involving washing, touching, or carrying out personal care tasks that most children would typically manage independently but are unable to due to physical disability, medical needs, or special educational needs.
This may include assisting with:
• Eating and drinking
• Dressing and toileting
• Personal hygiene
• Changing medical equipment, such as colostomy bags, where appropriate
All intimate care will be delivered in line with the school’s policies, safeguarding procedures and with dignity and respect at all times. Full training and support will be provided where necessary.
What the school offers its staff
Why Join the Thinking Schools Academy Trust?
We’re proud to offer more than just a job—we provide a range of exceptional benefits to support and reward our staff:
Career Development: We’re committed to your growth and offer fantastic opportunities for career advancement. From staff development days and conferences to apprenticeships at every level, we provide clear pathways for progression and exciting promotional opportunities across regions.
Health and Wellbeing Support: Access our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, free flu vaccinations and eye care vouchers. Enjoy reduced membership fees at our fully-equipped fitness suite and classes.
Employee Recognition: Refer a Friend and TSTARS Staff Recognition Programme.
TSAT Benefits Portal:A one-stop shop benefits hub that gives you access to a range of exclusive benefits including cashback on your favourite supermarkets and high street retailers, Cycle to Work Scheme and Discounted Gym Membership.
Blue Light Card:Offering exclusive discounts and savings at thousands of retailers, restaurants, and attractions.
Commitment to safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates, if you have any questions regarding this process please email recruitment@tsatrust.org.uk
Paignton Academy is seeking to expand its Learning Support team and is looking to appoint dedicated Learning Support Assistants (LSAs)to provide specialist support to pupils with special education needs, for example, learning, behavioural, communication, social, sensory or physical difficulties.
This is a rewarding opportunity for enthusiastic and motivated individuals who are passionate about supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
The successful postholder will work under the direction of the Learning Support Coordinator, providing targeted support to named SEND pupil(s) to help them access the curriculum and achieve their expected levels of progress. This will include supporting learning within the classroom and contributing positively to pupils’ educational, social and emotional development.
We are looking for candidates who:
• Have proven experience of working with children or young people, ideally within a school or educational setting
• Can demonstrate a strong commitment to improving educational and social outcomes
• Are empathetic, patient and approachable, with a genuine passion for supporting pupils’ learning
• Work effectively as part of a team and build positive relationships with pupils and staff
The role will include providing intimate care for specific students, as required. Intimate care is defined as support involving washing, touching, or carrying out personal care tasks that most children would typically manage independently but are unable to due to physical disability, medical needs, or special educational needs.
This may include assisting with:
• Eating and drinking
• Dressing and toileting
• Personal hygiene
• Changing medical equipment, such as colostomy bags, where appropriate
All intimate care will be delivered in line with the school’s policies, safeguarding procedures and with dignity and respect at all times. Full training and support will be provided where necessary.
What the school offers its staff
Why Join the Thinking Schools Academy Trust?
We’re proud to offer more than just a job—we provide a range of exceptional benefits to support and reward our staff:
Career Development: We’re committed to your growth and offer fantastic opportunities for career advancement. From staff development days and conferences to apprenticeships at every level, we provide clear pathways for progression and exciting promotional opportunities across regions.
Health and Wellbeing Support: Access our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, free flu vaccinations and eye care vouchers. Enjoy reduced membership fees at our fully-equipped fitness suite and classes.
Employee Recognition: Refer a Friend and TSTARS Staff Recognition Programme.
TSAT Benefits Portal:A one-stop shop benefits hub that gives you access to a range of exclusive benefits including cashback on your favourite supermarkets and high street retailers, Cycle to Work Scheme and Discounted Gym Membership.
Blue Light Card:Offering exclusive discounts and savings at thousands of retailers, restaurants, and attractions.
Commitment to safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates, if you have any questions regarding this process please email recruitment@tsatrust.org.uk