Personal Learning Assistant (PLA) - Neurodivergent Support

About the role

The Island Private School in Limassol, Cyprus, is looking for Personal Learning Assistants (PLAs) to support students with a range of neurodivergent learning profiles, aged 3 to 16. Working under the guidance of the Learning Support Lead, PLAs deliver bespoke 1-to-1 support so that each student has access to quality classroom teaching and peer interaction, balanced with low-demand, anxiety-reducing strategies. The school combines Waldorf, Montessori and IB approaches on one campus.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver personalised, 1-to-1 support that adapts to a student's daily energy, regulation and sensory needs.
• Work closely with the homeroom teacher to ensure smooth integration and alignment in the classroom.
• Help students access classroom teaching and social opportunities with peers, switching to lower-pressure activities when needed.
• Use low-arousal strategies to prevent overwhelm, reduce anxiety-driven behaviours and support emotional regulation.
• Implement individualised learning and behaviour plans with the Learning Support Lead and teachers.
• Promote autonomy through choice-based language and indirect support rather than rigid compliance.
• Keep regular contact with staff, the Learning Support Lead and families to track progress.

Required profile

• Practical experience in 1-to-1 or small-group support in educational, therapeutic or care settings, across Pre-Primary, Primary and/or Secondary.
• Experience supporting children with ASD, ADHD, PDA traits, oppositional or emotionally based behaviours, and sensory or social communication needs is welcomed.
• Relevant training in Education, Special Educational Needs, Psychology or Child Development is desirable; lived or practical experience is highly valued.
• Applicants must have the right to live and work in Cyprus; international applicants are asked to read the separate guidance before applying.

Required skills

• Neurodiversity-affirming practice and low-arousal, positive behaviour support approaches.
• High emotional intelligence, patience and adaptability.
• Ability to read subtle emotional cues and stay calm and supportive in stressful moments.

Applications are made by sending a CV; appointments are subject to reference and police checks, and the school follows safer recruitment practices.