Teaching Assistant

Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council; Barnsley; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 21,000; Full time

Job summary

Thurlstone Primary School in Barnsley is seeking an experienced Grade 3 Teaching Assistant to work initially in Key Stage 2. You will support pupils with SEND, collaborating with class teachers and the SENDCo to deliver tailored interventions.

The role focuses on nurturing, patient support to help children grow academically, socially and emotionally, in a warm, inclusive environment. The post is full-time 27.5 hours per week, permanent, starting 21 September 2026 or ASAP.

Qualifications

• A nurturing, patient and positive approach.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Experience with SEND, including supporting pupils with ASD, ADHD, SEMH or learning difficulties.

Responsibilities

• Support engaging lessons and interventions in collaboration with teachers.
• Provide targeted SEND support for pupils with a range of additional needs; adapting strategies to meet individual learning profiles.
• Assist KS2 pupils in Years 5 and 6 with curriculum delivery and emotional wellbeing.
• Build trusting relationships with pupils; promote inclusive practice.

Skills

Nurturing approach

Strong communication

Teamwork skills

SEND experience

Job description

Teaching Assistant | Grade 3 | Thurlstone Primary School

EXPERIENCED GRADE 3 TEACHING ASSISTANT TO WORK INITIALLY IN KEY STAGE 2

Location:Thurlstone Primary School
Contract:Full-time (27.5hrs) permanent
Salary:grade 3
Start Date: 21 st September 2026(or a soon as possible thereafter)

Shortlisting: Monday 14th September 2026

Interviews: Wednesday 16th July 2026

Our School

At Thurlstone Primary Schoolour motto is “Learn together; grow together; feel loved.”

You’d be joining a school that believes every child deserves to grow, learn and feel genuinely loved. This role is about being the steady, compassionate presence that helps children—especially those with SEND needs—flourish academically, socially and emotionally.

We are seeking a dedicatedgrade 3 Teaching AssistantwithSEND experienceand a proven ability to support pupils initially inKey Stage 2. You’ll work closely with class teachers and the SENDCo to ensure every child receives the tailored support they need to thrive.

Your work will directly reflect our school motto:

• Grow together — helping pupils build confidence, independence and resilience
• Learn together — supporting high-quality learning experiences for all
• Feel loved — creating a nurturing, safe and inclusive environment

Key Responsibilities

• Classroom Collaboration — Work alongside teachers to support engaging lessons and interventions.
• SEND Support — Provide targeted support for pupils with a range of additional needs; adapting strategies to meet individual learning profiles.
• KS2 Assistance — Work with pupils in Years 5 and 6; supporting curriculum delivery and emotional wellbeing.
• Pastoral Care — Build trusting relationships with pupils; ensuring they feel valued, understood and supported.
• Inclusive Practice — Promote a classroom culture where every child feels safe to participate and succeed.

What We’re Looking For:

• A nurturing, patient and positive approach
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• A commitment to helping children feel loved, valued and capable
• Experience with SEND;including supporting pupils with ASD, ADHD, SEMH or learning difficulties
• Knowledge of KS2 curriculumand age-related expectations

Why Join Us?

You’ll be part of a warm, supportive team that genuinely lives its values. We believe that when adults grow, learn and feel loved too, children benefit even more.

You’ll receive ongoing professional development, opportunities to specialise further in SEND and the chance to make a meaningful difference every single day.

Safeguarding

Thurlstone Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS check and provide satisfactory references.