Access Leader (Teaching Assistant)

Sir John Talbot's School; West Midlands; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Laptop provided

Staff wellbeing offer

Pension schemes

Onsite fitness suite

NPQ funding and professional learning

Job summary

Sir John Talbot’s School invites applications for a Teaching Assistant (Access Leader) to support pupils with SEND and to help develop an inclusive learning environment. The role is grade 6 SCP 7-11, pro rata for term-time plus two days, with a focus on high needs and raising achievement.

The successful candidate will join a passionate SEND team, working with the SENCO and Assistant Headteacher, and benefit from ongoing professional development, NPQs funding, and excellent staff facilities.

Qualifications

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to listen actively and adapt to pupil needs.
• Empathy, patience and a positive, proactive attitude.
• Strong organisational and administrative capabilities.
• Willingness to contribute to the school community.

Responsibilities

• Support the SEND Department to raise pupil achievement.
• Work closely with the Assistant Headteacher/SENCO.
• Contribute to whole school life and a positive ethos.
• Be a role model for students and colleagues.
• Demonstrate commitment to inclusive education.

Skills

Communication

Collaboration

Listening

Adaptability

Empathy

Patience

Organisational skills

Job description

Teaching Assistant (Access Leader)

Do you have a passion for working with children with SEND being dedicated to developing the mindset of the future generation and ensuring they are fully included?

Do you wish to take the next step in your career and work in a department where learning provides opportunities to ensure students with SEND reach their full potential?

If you are flexible and adaptable and willing to work with children who have a high need and the desire and commitment to raise the achievement of pupils at all levels, come and join our passionate and supportive team.

Grade 6 SCP 7-11 (Currently £26,403 to £28,142 Per annum (Pro Rata) (£13.69 to £14.59 per hour)

Permanent

Term Time plus 2 days

Required for 2nd November 2026

To be successful you will need to:

1. Have skills in communication, collaboration, listening, adaptability, empathy, and patience.
2. Possess outstanding organisational and administrative skills
3. Think creatively to anticipate and solve problems
4. Embody the values of ‘Achievement through Caring’
5. Contribute fully to school life
6. Have high expectations of yourself and be a role model to others
7. Be determined to play a pivotal role in the SEND Department, working closely with the Assistant Headteacher/ SENCO to achieve this

Why this Teaching Assistant (Access Leader) role above others?

Our SEND team works collaboratively to promote the progress and achievement of students with SEND throughout the school.

The department thrives on delivering a knowledge rich curriculum in well-resourced classrooms.

The successful applicant will be part of a team that has a variety of specialised staff, all offering support and guidance to each other, which creates a positive and hardworking ethos. They go above and beyond to ensure all pupils achieve.

Sir John Talbot’s School is at the centre of the community of Whitchurch, with excellent links to sports, business, and partner primary schools. We are committed to equipping all pupils with the skills and experiences that will prepare them for life. As part of The Marches Academy Trust, we have access to a network of support and challenge, ensuring we are operating at the forefront of educational thinking. The school sits in mature grounds with historic roots, providing an attractive setting in which pupils can thrive. Facilities are extensive including the community Leisure Centre, well-resourced faculty areas and Sixth Form.

We offer:

1. An ‘outstanding’ curriculum offering students a strong core entitlement in English, Mathematics and Science.
2. A full extra curricular programme with opportunities for enrichment activities for all.
3. Excellent professional learning and support, with opportunity for continued personal development.
4. Career development opportunities including funded NPQs.
5. Excellent staff facilities – workroom, kitchenette, and social space.
6. Staff benefits include staff wellbeing offer, teacher and local government pension schemes, use of laptop and free membership of our onsite fitness suite.
7. An enthusiastic and supportive team of staff, parents, and governors.

Closing date: Monday, 12th October 2026 at 9am

Interview date: Thursday, 15th October 2026

The Marches Academy Trust values each person equally. We are committed to building a diverse team and embedding a welcoming, inclusive culture that encourages diversity and authenticity. We believe this will encourage creative ways of thinking – ensuring we collaborate more effectively and achieve better outcomes. We welcome applicants from all qualified candidates who share this commitment.

We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the children in our care and expect all staff to share this commitment. Shortlisted applicants will be asked to declare any criminal convictions and will be subject to online checks. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.