Dedicated Teaching Assistant

The Downs School; Compton; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading secondary school in Compton is seeking an inspiring individual to support teachers and the SEN team by helping students in their learning. This nurturing position is ideal for someone with a passion for education and a desire to work closely with children. Responsibilities include managing student behavior, introducing lessons from subject specialists, and being part of a dedicated team aiming for professional growth. The school promotes a positive ethos and values staff recognition, offering a collaborative environment.

Benefits

Caring environment focused on staff well-being

Access to professional development opportunities

Flexible work options available

Qualifications

• Passion for supporting children in a school setting.
• Willingness to work independently and in small groups.
• Ability to manage student behavior effectively.

Responsibilities

• Support students' learning in the absence of the classroom teacher.
• Introduce and manage work set by subject specialists.
• Contribute to team development and departmental goals.

Skills

Organisational skills

Flexibility

Motivation

Reliability

Professional attitude

Job description

We are looking to recruit a talented, motivational, and inspiring individual to provide teachers and the SEN team with practical support. You will work either individually or with small groups of children to promote positive learning and behaviour. A passion and interest in supporting all children in a school setting is essential. This is an immensely rewarding role in its own right but also provides good experience for anyone considering training as a teacher.

Responsibilities

• Be organised, flexible and reliable, with the ability to work with students in a professional and appropriate way
• Be well‑motivated and keen to show their enthusiasm for the role
• Introduce work to students, set by a subject specialist, and support the students with their learning in the absence of the classroom teacher
• Issue (not set) work, managing behaviour, responding to students' general queries and ensuring students are working to their full potential
• Contribute to the development of the department as part of a dedicated team
• Have a professional attitude that is open to innovative ways of working
• Be flexible and adaptable when faced with challenges

Benefits

• Caring Environment: Our positive ethos prioritises staff well‑being and recognition.
• Empowerment: Work alongside ambitious, dedicated colleagues who are committed to developing the whole child.
• Exceptional Students: Engage with children who love being at school, exhibit exceptional behaviour and have a strong attitude towards their learning.
• Professional Environment: Join a stimulating and collaborative workplace in a school Ofsted labelled as 'exceptional' in October 2024.
• Professional Growth: Access extraordinary professional development and support to enhance your skills.
• Flexible Work Options: We value work balance through the availability of flexible working, our 'Time for you Tuesdays', commuted INSETs and Employee Assistance Programme.

About Us

The Downs School and Sixth Form is a successful, oversubscribed, and highly regarded secondary school located in the beautiful Downs area of West Berkshire. Praised in our recent Ofsted for the exceptional behaviour of our students, we are ranked in the top 5 % of schools nationally for Progress 8, reflecting our commitment to high‑quality teaching, learning, and student outcomes.

Application Details

We encourage early applications, as we reserve the right to close this vacancy if sufficient applications are received. We welcome pre‑arranged visits to the school. Please apply via TES and for more information, please contact [e-mail]. Closing date: 12 January 2026, 8 am.