Together, stronger

Learning Support Assistant Recruitment Pack

July 2025

• Letter from our CEO Page 3

• Letter from our Principal Page 4

• About us Page 5

• Our sponsors Page 6

• Role Description Page 7

• Key Responsibilities Page 8

• Person Specification Page 9

• Why Haberdashers? Page 12

• Recruitment process Page 15

• Contact details Page 16

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Contents

Letter from Jan Shadick, CEO

Dear Candidate,

Thank you for your interest in the post of Learning Support Assistant

We are a Trust of nine schools, all based in South East London. Whilst each of our schools maintains its individuality, we share a common mission: to ensure that every single child and young person in our care is successful at school so that they can flourish and be successful in their lives. We are committed to ensuring this success from 3 to Forever, under our mantra of ‘once a Haberdasher, always a Haberdasher’.

Our People Strategy is key to our success and integral to this is our commitment to equity, equality, diversity, and inclusion . Bringing this to life is the responsibility of every member of staff. We take seriously any behaviour which undermines it. Anyone applying to work with us, should share this commitment.

Please take a look on our website for more information. We want the best people to join our Haberdashers’ community and are committed to a diverse and inclusive student and staff body.

If you are passionate about making a difference and feel that you have the right experience and expertise, I encourage you to apply to join us on our journey.

For a confidential discussion regarding this post, please contact Trust Recruitment Lead, Yas Affum on y.affum@habstrustsouth.org.uk or HR Advisor for Crayford Academy, Lauren Findlay on l.findlay@habstrustsouth.org.uk

I look forward to hearing from you.

Jan Shadick Chief Executive Officer Haberdashers’ Academies Trust South

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Letter from Steve W

heatley, Executive Principal Dear Candidate,

Welcome to Crayford Academy, where education and excellence go hand in hand. Our dedicated team are committed to providing a dynamic and engaging learning environment for our pupils that is safe and supportive too. We strive to create a culture of curiosity, creativity and critical thinking that prepares our students for success in their futures whatever they may be.

We provide targeted support and a broad education to enable each and every one of our students to reach their full potential and to grow into well-rounded members of our community and aim to ensure all the children and young people who come to our schools: • Are happy and safe at school and are able to learn successfully within a supportive

environment • Are able to achieve their full potential personally, academically and socially. • Develop and grow as independent, resourceful and resilient individuals. • Are equipped with the skills, qualifications and love of learning they will need to be

successful in the world they will join as adults.

Our state-of-the-art facilities provide endless opportunities for exploration and discovery, while our diverse range of extracurricular activities and clubs allow our pupils to pursue their passions and develop their talents to the fullest.

Our pupils are at the heart of everything we do. Our pastoral team give individualised attention and teaching staff give personalised learning plans, we work closely with each student to help them reach their full potential. We foster a positive and inclusive community where all students feel valued and respected.

Our School was inspected by OFSTED in December 2022 with inspectors stating “Pupils are part of a strong and inclusive community. They meet the high expectations placed on them and have positive attitudes to learning”. OFSTED graded our school “GOOD” in all areas, you can read the full report here

We are proud of the achievements of our pupils and the impact they make in the world. Our most recent GCSE results place us in the top 20% of schools nationally, we are oversubscribed in year 7 and our 6th form continues to grow. Our pupils leave Crayford Academy with the skills, knowledge and confidence to make a meaningful difference in their communities and beyond.

Here at Crayford Academy, we believe that every student has the potential to achieve great things, we are “shaping futures” daily. Join us on this journey of discovery, and see for yourself the exciting and dynamic learning experience we offer.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Crayford Academy community!

Kindest regards

Mr Steve Wheatley Executive Principal Haberdashers’ Crayford Academy

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Federation-wide vision

We are a multi-academy trust consisting of four

secondary schools and five primary schools and have

been educating children and young people since 1876.

Our moral imperative at that time was to ensure that

every child in our care received the best possible

education in order to make the best start in life. That

moral imperative remains today, underpinned by ethos

of working together and our values of being ambitious,

always growing and contributing to the world as global

citizens.

In a complex world, we need our children and young

people to be as well equipped for their future as

possible so that they can flourish. We will support them

to become compelling individuals so that by the time

they leave us they will have experienced a range of

opportunities that not only build their mind but also

build their character.

We are proud to be a diverse community and take

seriously the need to ensure that every child, young

person and adult connected with our schools feels

included, welcomed and listened to. This is an

important part of who we are and our commitment to

equality and fairness. This commitment remains at the

forefront of our work.

To find out more about Haberdashers’ Academies Trust

South, please visit: www.habstrustsouth.org.uk

VISION 2026

Every School an

Excellent School

It is the Trust’s vision for all of our

schools to be excellent schools.

Our mission is to ensure that

every one of our children and

young people flourishes at school

so that they can be successful in

their lives.

Our three main objectives are:

• Excellent outcomes for all

children and young people so

that they can be successful in

their next steps and future

lives;

• To be regarded as a great

employer, attracting, retaining

and developing the best staff;

• To be the Trust of choice and a

welcome presence in our

communities.

To find out more about our Vision

and Strategy, please visit:

https://www.habstrustsouth.org.u

k/Our-Vision-and-Strategy

About Haberdashers’ Academies Trust South

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Our Sponsors

Our sponsors are a huge part of the culture within our schools. The links with our sponsors are a unique and special part of what makes our Trust and schools what they are today.

The Worshipful Company of Haberdashers

Our main sponsor is the Worshipful Company of Haberdashers, one of the Great Twelve Livery Companies of the City of London. Education is hugely important to the Haberdashers’ Company and today there are more than 12,000 children and young people in its’ family of 19 schools. The Haberdashers’ network of maintained and independent schools stretch across the country, covering north London, Shropshire and Monmouth and our own Trust, in south London and Kent. We have regular opportunities to collaborate with the wider network of Haberdashers’ schools on a number of initiatives and events.

The Haberdashers’ Company supports our pupils in many ways. There are a number of educational and careers initiatives that are organised by the Company, such as the Livery Academy Awards, Monmouth - City of London Work Experience, Haberdashers’ Musician of the Year, an annual Year 7 visit to the prestigious Haberdashers’ Hall, cross school sporting competitions, mentoring, trips and much more. Each year, a number of Year 13 pupils receive scholarships that will support them financially through university and the Company fund a number of projects throughout the school year. The relationship with the Haberdashers Company is central to the success of the Haberdashers’ Advantage enrichment programme, and pupils, parents and staff are proud of this relationship.

Being part of the Haberdashers’ community is very important to us as a school. The Haberdashers’ come and visit us each year to hear from the children, to see what has been happening in our school and to celebrate our achievements. The Haberdashers’ Company supports pupils, past and present, as they progress through their educational and professional journey, which offers our pupils something truly unique.

Find out more: www.haberdashers.co.uk

Role Description

About the role

This is a rewarding opportunity to join our dedicated support team as a Learning Support Assistant, working with students across all year groups who have a diverse range of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). You will play a vital role in helping young people access the curriculum, develop independence, and reach their full potential—both academically and socially.

Working under the guidance of teaching staff and the SENDCo, you will provide in-class support, deliver targeted interventions, and help to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment. This is an ideal role for someone who is patient, compassionate, and committed to making a difference in the lives of young people.

Whether you are new to education and looking to take your first step into a school-based role, or you bring previous experience supporting students with SEND, we will provide you with a comprehensive induction and ongoing training. We are looking for someone who shares our values, is eager to learn, and will thrive as part of a caring and collaborative team.

• We expect our staff to uphold the high standards and values of our school and proactively promote them to our students. Our vision is built from our values of Community, Critical Thinking, Courage and Confidence. You can find out more about our values and ethos here

• At Crayford Academy, we can offer you an enhanced salary package, which is not only higher than the national average but also exceeds that of other Bexley schools, making us a financially rewarding place to work.

Reporting

This role will report into the Assistant Principal for Behaviour and Inclusion

Staff Development

Our staff are important to us. We know that without great staff, our children will not be as successful. Therefore, Professional Learning is key to our success. As a new employee within the Trust, you will be supported by the Senior Directors of People and Professional Learning, alongside your line manager to realise your full potential.

We are proud to be a London Living Wage employer.

Job Title: Learning Support Assistant Contract Type: Permanent Salary: Band 3, point 9-12 £21, 206 – £22,755 (Actual Salary) School/Service: Haberdashers’ Crayford Academy Location: Iron Mill Lane, Crayford, DA1 4RS Hours Per Week: Full time, term time only

Main responsibilities • To develop an understanding of the special educational needs of the student/s concerned. • To take into account the student/s’ special needs and ensure their access to the lesson and its content

through appropriate clarification, explanations, equipment and materials. • Adapt resources and scaffold tasks to ensure accessibility and understanding • To build and maintain successful relationships with students, treat them consistently, with respect and

consideration. • Provide targeted support to students with SEND in and out of the classroom, including 1:1, small group

and in-class support • Assist with the implementation of EHCPs and personalised learning plans • Maintain accurate records of progress and contribute to reviews and meetings • To assist students with physical needs. • To help students record work in an appropriate way. • To develop study and organisational skills. • To help keep the students on task and to build motivation. • To help build the student/s’ confidence and enhance self-esteem. • Support co-curricular programs • To meet with teachers and contribute to planning lessons / activities. • To prepare materials and resources. • To prepare students beforehand for a task. • To work on differentiated activities with identified groups. • To support the teacher in implementing specific teaching programmes • To carry out structured classroom assessment/ observation and feedback outcomes. • To be involved in keeping records and evaluating identified students’ progress. • To work as part of the team in relation to individual students, liaising, advising and consulting where

appropriate. • To support with examinations, including scribing where required.

Other Responsibilities

• To attend staff briefing/meetings, training, and inset days as required • To carry out break or lunch duty as requested/as per rota

General • To work within the Academy framework with regard to Health and Safety • To promote equal opportunities in the Academy • To promote the ethos of the Trust / Academy • To promote the school’s commitment to the continued professional development of all staff. • To work within the school’s framework with regards to Health and Safety. • To be aware of and assume the appropriate level of responsibility for safeguarding and promoting the

welfare of children. • To report any Safeguarding concerns in accordance with Trust’s Safeguarding Policy • To undertake any duties as may reasonably be required by the Executive Principal or Leadership Team

Key responsibilities of the role

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Federation-wide vision Person specification

Essential Criteria Desirable Criteria

Method of Assessment:

Application (A) Interview (I)

Assessment (AS) References ( R)

Education and Qualifications

GCSE English (Grade C or above) A/I

TA Qualification A/I

Knowledge and Experience

Experience working with children or young people

Previous experience working within a school environment, secondary specific

A/AS/I/R

Experience supporting students with a range of SEND (e.g. autism, ADHD, speech and language difficulties, SEMH)

Understanding of the SEND Code of Practice and inclusive educational practices

A/AS/I/R

Experience of adapting learning tasks and supporting differentiation

Awareness of EHCPs and how they are used to support pupils

A/AS/I/R

Experience supporting students on a 1:1 basis and/or in small groups

Specialists skills/training in a curriculum area

A/AS/I/R

Experience of working collaboratively with teaching staff and/or external professionals

A/AS/I/R

Ability to develop positive relationships with young people and manage behaviour calmly and effectively

A/AS/I/R

Strong written and verbal communication skills A/AS/I/R

Patience, empathy, and a nurturing attitude A/AS/I/R

Flexible and adaptable to meet changing priorities

A/AS/I/R

Ability to work across year groups and with students of varying abilities

A/AS/I/R

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Federation-wide vision Person specification

Essential Criteria Desirable Criteria

Method of Assessment:

Application (A) Interview (I)

Assessment (AS) References ( R)

Personal Experience/Qualities

Clear commitment and understanding of the Trust ethos, vision and values and an ability to uphold them

A/I/AS/R

Belief in equality and opportunity for all, ensuring that all staff feel included and listened to

A/I/AS/R

Ability to establish and articulate a clear vision in an engaging way

A/I/AS/R

Determination and resilience A/I/AS/R

High level of interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to build relationships and influence at all levels – engaging with a range of stakeholders successfully

A/I/AS/R

Commitment to collaborative working A/I/AS/R

High expectations of achievement, conduct and behaviour and a willingness to address situations where these fall short

A/I/AS/R

Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people

A/I/AS/R

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“I believe in the value of working collaboratively with colleagues and partner schools to bring out the best in staff and students. The Trust consider the development of staff to be integral in its pursuit of excellence and I am supported and encouraged to grow within my role.”

K Atwell, Vice Principal Haberdashers’ Crayford Academy

Staff Benefits

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W hy H

aberdashers? At Haberdashers’ Academies Trust South, we believe that investing in our staff is crucial for our success. That’s why we offer a range of benefits that cater to your professional growth, well-being, and financial security.

Here are some of the benefits you can expect when you join us:

Perkbox: Our cutting-edge reward and benefits platform empowers you to acknowledge your colleagues’ accomplishments through its celebration tool. You can gain flexi and reward points, which can be redeemed at various high street and online retailers for treats and every day essentials. Additionally, you have the option to make charitable donations.

Pension Scheme: (eligible and enrolled participants): From 1 April 1 2024, for teachers, the Trust will contribute 28.68% to your pension fund. Support Staff will receive a 19.80% contribution to their pension pot from the same date.

Professional Learning: Our dedicated team at Habs Institute for Professional Learning is devoted to nurturing your professional growth. We offer excellent training opportunities for all staff throughout the year and provide partial funding for qualification pursuits.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Our EAP encompasses a 24-hour, free, and confidential counselling service. It includes access to online cognitive-behavioural therapy and management consultations to support Line Managers.

Well-being: Enjoy complimentary access to the award-winning Headspace app, along with free mindfulness courses to enhance your overall well-being.

Staff Development: Explore secondment opportunities within the Trust or external organisations, providing valuable experiences for your professional development.

Ride to Work and Cycle to Work Schemes: Take advantage of substantial discounts through tax allowances for either purchasing a bike or opting for bike hire, promoting a healthier and more sustainable commute.

Season Ticket Loans: Enjoy discounted annual travel fares through our salary-deductible Season Ticket Loan and save on your travel overall.

We are committed to helping you thrive in your career and personal life. Join our team and enjoy the benefits of working with a supportive and forward-thinking organisation.

Staff Incentives

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W hy H

aberdashers? We know that staff are our greatest asset in achieving our vision for every school to be an excellent school and for our children and young people to flourish and succeed.

To incentivise like-minded and talented people who care about the work we do at the Trust, to join us and stay with us, we have recently introduced :

Talent Connect Bonus

Refer a friend or connection to apply for a role at the Trust and receive a £300* bonus when they successfully complete their probation period.

Welcome Reward

Those employed in ‘hard to fill’ roles to receive a Welcome Reward of £500* after successfully completing their

probation period.

Milestone Appreciation Award

Long-serving members of staff to receive a £500*** reward and congratulatory letter from the CEO for reaching 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25-year anniversaries with the Trust. * subject to tax and National Insurance contributions, and other terms and conditions. Some senior leaders will be exempt from receiving the Talent Connect Bonus.

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T Dosunmu, Teacher of Maths Haberdashers’ Academies Trust South

“Crayford academy - a school beyond the measure of good in most aspects, brimming with fantastic and energetic teachers

full of passion for what they teach!!”

Recruitment process and additional recruitment information Closing date: 14 August 2025, 12pm Interview date: TBC Start date: As soon as possible

Recruitment Process: Once you have submitted your application, it will be assessed against the criteria in the person specification. If you score well against this criteria, you will then be invited to attend an interview. Details will be made available when selected, but the interview is likely to include:

• A written/practical task • A presentation • An in-person interview

Special Requirements: If you require reasonable adjustments prior to your interview, these can be arranged by emailing crayfordhr@habstrustsouth.org.uk

Equality and Diversity: We recognise the benefits of a diverse workforce. We are committed to eradicating discrimination in the workplace, becoming an employer of choice, for all staff to believe that they have a voice and be empowered to make a difference

References: We will obtain references from your referees if you are successful at interview. In order to prevent any delays, please ensure that the reference section of the application form is accurate and completed in full.

Right to work in the UK: Section 8 of the Asylum and Immigration Act 2006 makes it a criminal offence for an employer to take on a new employee whose immigration status prevents him/her from taking up employment. If you are invited to attend an interview, you will be asked to produce original and up to date documentary evidence of your right to work in the UK.

Data Protection: Any data about you will be held securely with access restricted to those involved in dealing with your application in the selection process. By signing and submitting your application form, you are giving consent to the processing of your data.

Criminal Convictions: All education establishments in the UK are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. In practice, this means that all applicants must inform on all spent and unspent convictions on their application form and when completing a Disclosure and Barring form. Failure to provide this information may result in dismissal. List 99 is also obtained on anyone who will be working or coming into contact with children; and must be received by the School before employment can commence.

For a confidential discussion about this post or to arrange a visit to our school, please

contact Lauren Findlay on l.findlay@habstrustsouth.org.uk

Thank you for your interest in Haberdashers’ Crayford Academy. We look forward to receiving your

application.

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Haberdashers’ Crayford Academy Iron Mill Lane, Crayford, Kent DA1 4RS

www.habscrayford.org.uk X - @HabsCrayford

Instagram - habscrayford