Teaching Assistant

Polaris, company; Andover; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 23,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Enhanced DBS check funded

Professional development opportunities

Supportive team environment

Job summary

Polaris Community in Andover is seeking a dedicated Teaching Assistant to support a pupil or small group, assist the class teacher, and monitor progress. You will also supervise during non‑class time and help with planning, marking and pupil engagement across activities.

The role requires GCSEs in English and Maths, plus relevant experience. DBS check will be completed, and Polaris emphasises safeguarding and professional development within a supportive team.

Qualifications

• Minimum GCSE grade C in English Language and Mathematics.
• Experience in a similar Teaching Assistant role.
• Experience with SEMH in an educational setting is desirable.
• Willing to take additional responsibilities within the school.
• Committed to ongoing professional development.
• Willing to undergo Enhanced DBS check prior to starting.

Responsibilities

• Mentor and support one pupil or a small group (up to six).
• Support the Classroom Teacher during lessons.
• Report on pupil progress and liaise with staff.
• Supervise pupils during non-classroom times and trips.
• Assist with lesson planning and preparation.
• Set work and assist with marking where appropriate.
• Build positive relationships to drive learning outcomes.

Skills

Mentoring

Classroom support

Behaviour management

Communication

Professional development

IT skills

Education

GCSE English (C or above)

GCSE Mathematics (C or above)

A-levels (preferred)

Job description

Teaching Assistant

Contract: Full-time, term-time only

Salary: £21,257 - £23,232.69

Benefits: Company Pension, Life Assurance, Employee Discount Scheme

Location: Andover, Hants

Are you ready to join a supportive and nurturing community that works together to achieve the very best outcomes for its pupils? If so, our new school in Andover could be the perfect place for you to develop your career and make a real difference to the lives of children and young people.

About the School

Located in Andover, Hampshire, Lyttelton House School has the capacity for up to 60 pupils and offers safe and supportive environments for pupils from 5 to 18 years old with a range of complex needs. We believe in fostering a positive and supportive environment where every child feels valued, respected, and empowered. Our commitment to a holistic approach ensures that academic progress is complemented by emotional wellbeing and personal growth.

Our school will form part of the Polaris Community, who have been passionately improving the lives of young people for over 30 years, alongside our current growing portfolio of schools across the UK. We‘re incredibly proud that 100% of our education services have been rated as Good or Outstanding by Ofsted.

Role Responsibilities

• Dedicated to mentoring and supporting one pupil or a small group of no more than six pupils
• Supporting the Classroom Teacher during lessons
• Reporting on pupils‘ progress and concerns, and liaising with other school staff to ensure pupils‘ needs are met
• Supervision of pupils during non-classroom time including extra-curricular activities and school trips
• Assisting with lesson planning and classroom preparation
• Setting work where appropriate, and marking
• Building positive relationships with pupils and driving interaction and positive learning outcomes

Requirements

• Have a strong basic education, ideally to A-level, with a minimum of GCSE Grade C or equivalent in English Language and Mathematics, and sound IT skills
• Previous experience in a similar role, ie Teaching Assistant
• Some previous experience of working with pupils with SEMH within an educational setting
• Be experienced and confident enough to take additional responsibility in an area of school, ie Food Hygiene, Forest School, Lunchtimes, School Yoga etc.
• Experience of behaviour management and techniques
• Committed to professional development and willing to learn
• Must be willing to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check prior to commencing work

What We Offer

A workplace that values the emotional health and wellbeing of everybody (you included!)

A commitment to support your development in acquiring new skills through a wide range of professional opportunities

An opportunity to make a huge contribution to the lives and lifelong learning of vulnerable children who deserve high quality teaching in a safe educational provision

A friendly and inclusive team who are passionate about improving pupil outcomes

The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check, cost of which will be met by Polaris Community.

Polaris Community is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates.

Polaris Community is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment.