Pattern: 30 hrs per week, Monday to Friday
                 Term time only (38 weeks)

Salary: Somerset Pay Spine Grade 14, £25,185 – £25,989 FTE
              £17,038 - £17,582 (Actual salary)

Start Date: September 2026

Contract: Permanent

‍

Inspiring Growth, Curiosity and Confidence

Dunster First School, part of the Moorland Federation, is seeking a caring, enthusiastic and dedicated Learning Support Assistant to join our welcoming school community.

This is an exciting opportunity to work within a nurturing and inclusive village school where relationships are at the heart of everything we do. We are proud of our strong community ethos and our commitment to ensuring every child feels valued, supported and inspired to thrive.

The role would also suit a qualified Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) or someone with previous experience in this type of role. The ability and confidence to cover lessons when required would be highly beneficial.

We are looking for an individual who is passionate about supporting children’s learning and wellbeing, and who can contribute positively to our warm, collaborative team.

As a Learning Support Assistant at Dunster First School, you will support pupils across the school, helping children to develop confidence, independence and a love of learning. Our village school environment, offers a varied and rewarding role with opportunities to work across different ages and stages of learning.

We’re looking for compassionate, creative and adaptable individuals who are:

·       Passionate about supporting children to achieve their full potential academically, socially and emotionally

·       Caring, patient and able to build strong, positive relationships with children

·       Committed to inclusive practice and supporting pupils with a range of additional needs, including SEND

·       Enthusiastic, motivated and committed to helping children thrive

·       Flexible, adaptable and willing to contribute to all aspects of school life

·       Able to work effectively as part of a team while also showing initiative

·       Positive, reflective and committed to ongoing professional development

·       Supportive of the school’s values, ethos and wider Federation vision

This role will suit you if you have:

·       Experience working with children within a school, childcare or similar setting

·       HLTA qualification and/or previous experience in a similar role (desirable)

·       A good understanding of child development and positive behaviour support

·       An interest in inclusive education and supporting pupils with SEND

·       Strong communication and interpersonal skills

·       The ability to support learning both within the classroom and through small group or individual interventions

·       A calm, nurturing and encouraging approach

·       A willingness to learn and develop professionally

·       An appreciation of the opportunities and rewards of working within a village school community

In return, we offer:

·       A collaborative, friendly team and supportive leadership, including engaged Governors who care about your success

·       The opportunity to work in a school recognised for its inclusive practice and SEND provision

·       The chance to make a meaningful difference in a school where your ideas and efforts are truly valued

·       Ongoing professional development tailored to your growth and career progression opportunities

·       An inclusive, values-driven culture that champions diversity, wellbeing, and a sense of belonging for all

·       A Federation-wide ethos of collaboration and care

At Dunster First School and within the Moorland Federation, you will find a welcoming and supportive environment where your contribution is celebrated and your wellbeing is prioritised. We are committed to helping every member of staff flourish both personally and professionally.

About Dunster First School and the Moorland Federation

‍
Dunster First School is a welcoming village school set in the heart of the historic village of Dunster, surrounded by woodland, moorland and the heritage of Dunster Castle. At the centre of our supportive community, we are proud to be a happy, kind and caring school where children always come first.

We celebrate each child’s individuality, creativity, curiosity and character and are committed to helping them flourish both academically and personally.

“Expect the best in everything then play your part in achieving it.”

Our Federation celebrates individuality and a strong sense of community, nurturing children to 'grow together, and learn for life', as confident, compassionate citizens. We value team work, care deeply about wellbeing, and are dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children in our care.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to play a key role in helping our young learners grow in confidence and curiosity, we would love to hear from you.

Application Deadline: 11^th June 2026, 9.00am

Interviews: Thursday 18^th June 2026

Further information can be found within the attached documents:

• Job description
• Person Specification
• SCC Application Form

Or contact us via email or telephone:

recruitment@moorlandfed.co.uk                 07947 994052

Safeguarding Statement

The Moorland Federation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and must share our commitment to child protection.

‍