Higher Level Teaching Assistant (Fixed Term Maternity Cover)

‘Are you seeking a new and rewarding challenge? Do you have a genuine passion for making a difference? If your answer is a resounding 'Yes,' then you might be the ideal candidate we're searching for.’ 

About the role 

We are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, hardworking and committed Higher Level Teaching Assistant to join our team at Larks Hill Junior and Infant School. The successful candidate will be responsible for complementing the professional work of teachers by taking responsibility for agreed learning activities under an agreed system of supervision. They will also line manage other Learning Support Assistants, including allocation and monitoring of work.   

We are looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic person who:  

• has a passion for helping pupils thrive and meet their full potential.  
• has a friendly manner and can communicate effectively with staff and pupils.  
• can work effectively as part of a team but can also work independently using their own initiative.  
• has experience of working in a similar specialist area. 

The role is a month fixed term (maternity cover) contract from 18th November 2024 to 18th July 2025, 19.5 hours per week, term time plus 5 days, contract. 

Larks Hill Junior & Infant School 

Larks Hill, a high-achieving school both locally and nationally, is a one form entry primary school, part of Pontefract Academies Trust. At Larks Hill, we are committed to investing in all of our children to prepare and provide them with the educational and life skills they will need to be successful in high school and future careers. We want children to be the ‘very best version of themselves’.  In 2023 & 2024 we achieved 93% for reading, writing and maths with 39% of the 2024 cohort achieving greater depth in reading, writing and maths, leading us to being recognised as one of the top ten highest achieving schools in Yorkshire.  Additionally, we proudly secured the 121st spot in the prestigious 2024 'Times Top 500 Primary Schools in England' list, firmly establishing us within the top 3% of primary schools across the country. 

About Pontefract Academies Trust

Pontefract Academies Trust is a cross phase Multi-Academy Trust comprising of nine schools: seven primaries and two 11-16 secondary schools. Our mission is running high quality, high achieving schools that give our children and young people the chance in life they deserve. The Trust is renowned for its commitment to excellence and has achieved remarkable success. Five of our primary schools rank within the top 1% nationally for progress, and our secondary schools feature among the top three secondary schools in the Wakefield district. In a testament to our dedication to educational excellence, De Lacy Primary School was recognised as an “Outstanding” school across all categories by Ofsted in March 2024, underscoring our unwavering pursuit of high standards. 

What can we offer you?  

We’re passionate about employee benefits at Pontefract Academies Trust, offering the following as standard to all:  

• Exciting career and leadership pathways supported by outstanding CPD opportunities 
• Generous employer pension (Teachers Pension and West Yorkshire Pension Fund - LGPS). 
• Generous annual leave entitlements paid as part of your annual salary (starting from 26 days annual leave, up to a maximum of 33 days dependent on length of service and grade of role – plus 8 statutory bank holidays).  
• Fantastic family friendly policies with a focus on employee work/life balance.  
• Cycle to work scheme.  
• Discounted gym membership  
• Free eyecare 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. 

Next steps:   

Please visit the Pontefract Academies Trust website where you can find the Trust Strategic Plan for 2025 to 2028.   

Here you can find Larks Hill Junior & Infant School with further information about our visions and values.   

For more information about the role or to arrange a potential visit please contact the school on 01977 722845 or via email at recruitment@larkshill.patrust.org.uk. 

Completed application forms should be returned via Face-Ed no later than 10:00am on Tuesday 1st October 2024.  

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

The Pontefract Academies Trust is wholly committed 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.