Teaching Assistant
Location: Chester le Street, Durham
Working hours: 8.30am-3.30pm, Monday to Friday
Start date: October 2026
Milk Education are recruiting for a Teaching Assistant to work with children in a welcoming primary school based in north Durham. This is a fantastic opportunity for a Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant, Nursery Practitioner, Childcare Professional or anyone with experience supporting young children who is ready to take the next step in their education career.
Whether you already hold a Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification or are looking to build valuable classroom experience, we'll help you find a setting where your skills, personality and experience can make a genuine impact.
Teaching Assistant Key Responsibilities:
- Supporting pupils one-to-one and in small groups, adapting your approach to their individual needs
- Helping children develop their literacy, numeracy, communication and social skills
- Encouraging pupils to participate in lessons and access the curriculum with confidence
- Building children's independence, resilience and self-esteem
- Promoting positive behaviour through a calm, consistent and nurturing approach
- Working closely with the class teacher to support learning activities and adapt resources where appropriate
- Providing additional support to pupils with SEND and other learning or developmental needs
- Creating a safe, inclusive and engaging classroom environment where every child feels valued
- Supporting pupils throughout the wider school day, including practical activities and break times
Teaching Assistant Person Specification:
- A Level 2 or Level 3 qualification in childcare, education or a related subject, or equivalent hands‑on experience (preferred)
- Recent experience working with children in a school, nursery, childcare or similar setting
- A genuine interest in supporting children's learning and development
- Strong literacy and numeracy skills
- A patient, approachable and encouraging nature
- Confidence working with young children and building positive relationships
- The ability to take direction from the class teacher and work effectively as part of a wider school team
- An understanding of how children's learning and development can vary, including experience supporting additional needs
Benefits:
- Competitive rates of pay with temp‑to‑perm routes available
- Speedy registration process & fast‑track compliance - APSCo Compliance+ accredited for the highest safer recruitment standards
- Culture‑matched placements - we take the time to understand you and find schools that fit your values and strengths
- Priority Partnership school network - access to trusted schools who work with us long‑term on staffing, enrichment and community initiatives
- 5+ CPD courses completed before placement (including Safeguarding, SEND & Behaviour) with access to further accredited training through the Milk Academy
- FREE PSHE lesson plans and resources, designed by real teachers
- FREE Educator Wellbeing resources and access to our community hub - because we believe supported staff stay longer and make a bigger impact
- School Preparation Pack with handover notes and insightful school guides - so you walk in ready on day one
- 24/7 support from your personal consultant, directly through their work mobile phone to ensure your journey is personal
Milk Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We are APSCo Compliance+ accred