Learning Support Assistant

Start date: 2 November 2026

Contract type: Full Time

Salary: Competitive

Hours: From 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, five days per week.

Position: Term time (34 weeks) plus five inset days.

Location: Herries Prep School**,** Dean Lane**,** Cookham Dean**,** Berkshire**,** SL6 9BD

The Learning Support Assistant Role

Herries Preparatory is seeking to recruit a Learning Support Assistant to work pupils within the classroom. This is an exciting position, contributing directly to the welfare and learning of individual pupils, as well as being involved in the wider life of our busy school. The role will entail providing a secure learning environment that allows the pupil to receive educational, social and emotional development, supporting the child in overcoming barriers to learning and assisting the subject teachers in delivering academic material in and out of the classroom. The applicant will combine an interest in education with some experience of working with children.

The Team

You would be part of a dedicated team of assistants and specialists, overseen by our SENCO. The successful candidate would become part of a small, friendly and happy school.

Experience

The successful candidate will possess experience in working with pupils, preferably with additional learning needs.

Approach

A commitment to delivering excellent Learning Support is essential. High levels of resourcefulness will be expected as well as the ability to form effective relationships with children, parents and staff. The ability to be flexible, organised and independent is necessary. Applicants should possess an engaging personality and plenty of patience, initiative and energy.

Job Description

The main responsibilities will include:

• Supporting learning under the direction of the teacher.
• Engaging learners in a variety of ways, offering further support, clarification and guidance.
• Moving learning forward effectively to make sustained progress.
• Creating or providing adaptation as necessary to support learning.
• Assisting individual pupils with their ability to fully access the curriculum and school activities.

How to apply

Applicants should complete an Application Form.

At the interview, candidates will be assessed against relevant criteria, such as skills, abilities and experience.

Closing date: Monday, 12 October 2026.

Herries is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The protection of our pupils’ welfare is the responsibility of all staff and individuals are expected to conduct themselves in a way that reflects the principles of our organisation. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) clearance along with other relevant pre-employment checks. At least two references will be taken up and carefully checked.

We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

Work Location: In person