EAL Teaching Assistant

Teaching Personnel; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable primary school in Preston is seeking a dedicated Teaching Assistant to support students with English as an Additional Language (EAL). This role requires nurturing and empathetic individuals who can help recent arrivals adjust socially and academically. You will work closely with teachers and provide in-class support, ultimately fostering an inclusive environment. Candidates should have experience with EAL and possess strong communication skills. This is a full-time, term-time only position, paying £13.75 per hour with potential for permanent roles.

Benefits

Free child protection training

Support for enhanced DBS checks

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children who are new to the UK school system required.
• Ability to communicate effectively within a team setting.
• Commitment to inclusion and diversity is essential.

Responsibilities

• Provide support to EAL pupils in-class and in small groups.
• Work with teachers to tailor individual support.
• Help pupils adjust socially and emotionally to school life.

Skills

Experience supporting children with EAL

Awareness of SEMH needs

Strong communication skills

Nurturing and empathetic approach

Job description

Teaching Assistant Vacancy – EAL Support (Full-Time, Term-Time Only)

Mainstream Primary School: Preston
Start Date: December 2025
Hours: 8:30am – 3:30pm (30 mins unpaid break)
Pay: £13.75 per hour, paid weekly

The Head Teacher of a reputable Primary School in Preston is looking for a dedicated and compassionate Teaching Assistant to support pupils with English as an Additional Language (EAL)—particularly children who are recent arrivals to the UK.

Situated in the heart of Preston, this school serves a vibrant and multicultural community, where over 90% of pupils are from minority ethnic backgrounds and many speak English as an additional language. Our school is proud of its inclusive ethos and is committed to supporting every child to thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally.

Your Role:

This rewarding role involves supporting children who are new to the English language and new to the UK school system. You will:

• Provide in-class and small-group support to EAL pupils, helping develop their confidence and communication
• Work closely with class teachers and the EAL coordinator to tailor support based on individual needs
• Support pupils’ social and emotional adjustment to school life in the UK
• Help build trusting relationships with pupils who may be experiencing anxiety, or SEMH challenges

Who We’re Looking For:

We welcome applicants who have:

• Experience supporting children with EAL, particularly recent UK arrivals
• Awareness or experience in supporting pupils with SEMH needs
• A nurturing, patient, and empathetic approach
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work well within a team
• A commitment to inclusion, diversity, and equity

All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
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