Vacancies

Key Stage 1 Teaching Assistant 

Salary: Competitive and dependent on experience 

Job type: Permanent, Term time plus INSET days

Reports to: Head of Key Stage 1/Class Teacher

Start date: 1st September 

Apply by: 26th June

Interviews: w/c 29th June

Job purpose

We are seeking an enthusiastic, caring and proactive Key Stage 1 Teaching Assistant to join our dedicated team. This rewarding role involves supporting children both within the classroom and through targeted interventions, helping pupils to develop confidence, independence and a love of learning.

The successful candidate will work closely with class teachers to provide high-quality support for individuals, small groups and whole-class activities. This is a varied and creative role, requiring flexibility, positivity and a genuine passion for working with young children.

Key Responsibilities

Classroom Support

• Support the class teacher in delivering engaging and effective lessons.
• Assist in the preparation, organisation and maintenance of classroom resources and learning environments.
• Promote positive behaviour and uphold the school's expectations and values.
• Support pupils during lessons to ensure they remain engaged and make good progress.
• Encourage children's independence, confidence and resilience in their learning.
• Assist with classroom displays and celebrations of children's work.

Individual and Small Group Support

• Work with pupils on a one-to-one basis to support their academic, social and emotional development.
• Deliver intervention programmes in areas such as phonics, reading, writing, mathematics and social skills.
• Monitor and record pupil progress, providing feedback to teachers as required.
• Adapt support strategies to meet the individual needs of pupils.

Pastoral Care

• Help create a safe, caring and inclusive environment where all children feel valued.
• Support children's wellbeing and emotional development.
• Encourage positive relationships between pupils and promote excellent manners and behaviour.
• Assist with transitions throughout the school day.

Wider School Responsibilities

• Support educational visits, enrichment activities and school events.
• Supervise pupils during breaktimes, lunchtimes or other designated duties as required.
• Attend staff meetings, training sessions and professional development opportunities.
• Contribute positively to the wider life of the school community.

Safeguarding

• Promote and safeguard the welfare of all children.
• Adhere to all safeguarding, child protection, health and safety, and school policies.
• Report any safeguarding concerns immediately in accordance with school procedures.

Person Specification

Essential

• A genuine enthusiasm for working with children aged 5–7 years.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with pupils, staff and parents.
• A positive, patient and nurturing approach.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.
• Good literacy and numeracy skills.

Desirable

• Previous experience working in a primary or preparatory school setting.
• Teaching Assistant qualification or relevant childcare qualification.
• Experience supporting phonics, early reading and mathematics interventions.
• Experience working with children with additional learning needs.

What We Are Looking For

The successful candidate will be someone who:

• Brings energy, enthusiasm and creativity to their work every day.
• Enjoys supporting children both academically and pastorally.
• Is confident working with individual pupils, small intervention groups and whole classes.
• Can use initiative whilst also working collaboratively with teachers.
• Understands the importance of fostering children's confidence, curiosity and independence.
• Has a warm and caring nature combined with high expectations for all pupils.

This is a wonderful opportunity for someone who enjoys making a genuine difference to children's educational journeys. Every day brings something new, from supporting a child to master a new skill, to participating in exciting classroom projects, creative activities and school events.

Safeguarding children

Godstowe Preparatory School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and all safer recruitment procedures.