At Cognita, we know every student is unique. We nurture their distinct personalities and strengths. We support them academically, socially, and emotionally, wherever they are in the world, wherever theyre starting from. And each and every one of our schools is unique too.
We protect whats special about them, while offering them rich knowledge, opportunities, and best practices. And they get to be part of something bigger. We open their classrooms to the collective wisdom of over 100 schools in 17 countries, ensuring every child gets an education thats, quite literally, world class.
Its an individual approach that empowers every school, teacher and student to focus on what they do best. And thrive.
About The Role
Position objective
A PLA is an educational assistant working as a part of a teaching team to support the learning needs of a particular child. The PLA works with subject teachers and the learning support team to implement strategies related to the needs of the child and document response to intervention. The PLA also maintains close communication with the families of the children they serve. The role involves providing care for the student while supporting their ongoing academic, social and emotional development. Providing a PLA allows the child to attend an inclusive class while receiving the extra attention needed.
Responsibilities
Student Support
Assist the assigned student in meeting classroom behavior expectations.
Support the students active participation in class activities and task completion.
Encourage the student to seek help from the teacher when needed.
Help build the students independence and self-management skills.
Facilitate collaboration with peers, including explaining instructions and prompting participation.
Implement accommodations and modifications as outlined in the students ILP.
Monitor progress and provide feedback to the Learning Support Team.
Collaboration and Communication
Work closely with subject teachers, the Learning Support Coordinator, and parents to align on strategies and accommodations.
Contribute to the review and evaluation of ILP goals and student progress.
Communicate concerns or questions related to the students well-being or learning with the appropriate parties (e.g., parents, Learning Support Team).
Participate in regular team meetings with the Grade Level team and Learning Support staff.
Compliance and Record-Keeping
Comply with all school rules, policies, and procedures.
Complete all required annual trainings for school staff, including signing the annual declaration.
Participate in regular data collection and documentation related to the students ILP.
Report safeguarding concerns or student disclosures through CPOMS and to the designated school contacts (SEN, DSL, or Principal).
In the case of unplanned absence, inform the parent and the school promptly.
Interaction Guidelines
As a trusted adult, the PLA may engage with other students as needed, always maintaining professional boundaries.
May respond to general classroom procedural questions but should refer academic content queries to the teacher.
Use discretion when raising concerns with classroom teachers and seek support from the SEN team when necessary.
Engage with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for any low-level concerns or self-reporting matters.
The job holders responsibility for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children and young persons for whom s/he is responsible, or with whom s/he comes into contact will be to adhere to and ensure compliance with the relevant Cognita Safeguarding; Child Protection Policy and Procedures at all times. If in the course of carrying out the duties of the role, the job holder identifies any instance that a child is suffering or likely to suffer significant harm either at school or at home, s/he must report any concerns to the Schools Child Protection Officer/Designated Safeguarding Lead or to the Head or indeed to the Regional CEO so that a referral can be made accordingly to the relevant third party services.
Qualifications
A bachelor degree in education, psychology, special education, social work, or a related field.
Experience working with children in educational settings, preferably with students who have additional learning needs.
Basic understanding of learning differences and inclusive education practices.
Position requirement
Understanding of inclusive education and learning support strategies.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Proficiency in English (spoken and written)
Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.
Commitment to child safeguarding and confidentiality.
Patience, empathy, and a student-centered mindset.
Willingness to learn and adapt strategies to meet the childs evolving needs.
Ability to provide consistent, positive support while encouraging independence.
How to Apply
The Closing Date for Applications is: Aug 30, 2025.
Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.
We believe having a diverse workforce makes us better, smarter and happier and so welcome applicants from all backgrounds, genders, and races. We have an unwavering commitment to being fair and equitable in our recruitment process.
Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.
Applicants who have not heard from us by the closing date must assume that, on this occasion, their application has been unsuccessful.
