Learning Support Assistant

We are looking to appoint a Learning Support Assistant as soon as possible to join a well-established team supporting a range of students' needs in class, in small groups and/or specialised individual learning. The successful candidate will work under the direction of teaching staff to support pupils within the classroom in a range of different subject areas. There may, in addition, be an opportunity for further, separately paid duties to be undertaken during break and lunch times.

Applicants should ideally have experience of working with students with a range of Special Educational Needs and experience of working with students with ASD and ADHD would be an advantage. It would also be beneficial, but not essential, to have knowledge or training of a particular area of SEND.

Applicants should have good English and Maths skills (GCSE equivalent grade C or above) and be confident working with IT.

What the school offers its staff

Set in the heart of the green belt and on the edge of Biggin Hill, yet within easy travelling distance to London, the school is surrounded by open spaces. The school has extensive sports and community facilities which include floodlit tennis courts, a sports hall, a multi-purpose hall, a fitness suite and a floodlit 3G pitch. The school also runs the Darwin Leisure Centre which is located on the school site.

At the heart of the school are its distinctive ethos and a shared vision which are supported by the staff, students, parents and governors. This ethos and vision have helped to create a very strong caring and cohesive community based on the enduring values of high achievement, friendship, respect and compassion for others. This philosophy is supported and evidenced by the excellent relationships which exist between the staff and students.

Charles Darwin staff are friendly, hardworking and conscientious. The school enjoys a low staff turnover and is able to attract and retain well qualified and committed staff. We actively promote continuing professional development for all staff, in line with the needs of the individual and those of the school. We offer a full and comprehensive induction and ongoing support programme for all new staff.

The school is a founder member of the highly regarded Bromley Schools Centred Initial Teacher Training Collegiate which enables our staff to share their expertise and good practice with others.

Staff wellbeing is a key focus for the school with an Assistant Headteacher having specific responsibility in this area. Staff enjoy a number of benefits including free on-site parking, free tea/coffee at break, child-care vouchers, a cycle to work scheme, free flu vaccinations and the opportunity to join outstanding residential trips such as trips to Iceland, and the annual ski-trip.

Further details about the role

Charles Darwin School is a highly successful co-educational comprehensive school for students aged 11-18 which has been serving the local community since 1973.

Charles Darwin is a "good" school (Ofsted 2023) with an ethos that encourages academic rigour, high expectations and a well-disciplined approach to learning. The school is very popular and has 1320 students including the Sixth Form.