Dedicated Teaching Assistant

The Downs School; England; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Supportive environment

Professional development

Flexible working

Job summary

The Downs School in West Berkshire is seeking a motivated individual to provide practical support to teachers and the SEN team on a fixed-term contract. You will work either alone or with small groups of children to promote positive learning and behaviour, within a friendly and professional school setting.

A passion for helping all children and a flexible, proactive attitude are essential. This role offers valuable experience for anyone considering training as a teacher and contributes to a

Qualifications

Responsibilities

Job description

We are looking to recruit a talented, motivational, and inspiring individual to provide teachers and the SEN team with practical support for a fixed term contract. 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.

About the Role: As a successful candidate, you will:

• 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 setting) 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

In return, you’ll enjoy:

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 judged by ALPS to be red hot, reflecting our commitment to high-quality teaching, learning, and student outcomes.

Closing date: 23 November 2026, 8am