Teaching Assistant

Polaris, company; Liverpool City Region; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 23,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company Pension

Life Assurance

Employee Discount Scheme

Job summary

Polaris Community in Headingley, Leeds is seeking a dedicated Teaching Assistant (Secondary) to support one pupil or small groups and assist in lessons. The role focuses on creating a safe, inclusive learning environment and promoting pupil engagement and progress.

You will work under the supervision of the classroom teacher, report on pupil progress, and contribute to planning and preparation. DBS check will be processed through Polaris Community and training provided.

Qualifications

• GCSE English and Maths at grade C or above or equivalent.
• A-levels (or equivalent) preferred for the role.

Responsibilities

• Mentor and support one pupil or a small group of up to six pupils.
• Support the classroom teacher during lessons.
• Report on pupils' progress and concerns to ensure needs are met.
• Supervise pupils during non‑classroom time, trips and activities.
• Assist with lesson planning and classroom preparation.
• Set work and mark where appropriate.
• Build positive relationships to drive learning outcomes.

Skills

Behaviour management

Pupil engagement

Communication skills

IT skills

Education

A-levels or equivalent

GCSE English and Maths (C or above)

Job description

Teaching Assistant (Secondary)

Contract: Full-Time, Term Time Only

Salary: £21,257 - £23,232.69

Benefits: Company Pension, Life Assurance, Employee Discount Scheme

Location: Headingley, Leeds

Start Date: April 2026

About the School

Located in Headingley, Leeds, our school offers a safe and supportive environment for pupils from 5 to 18 years old. With significant investment and an abundance of new resources, the successful applicant will have the opportunity to shape and mould the school to create a supportive environment that promotes self-discipline, engagement and inspires learning. Our mission is to provide each pupil with a diverse and appropriate education that encourages aspiration and achievement. We are part of the Polaris Community and have been passionately improving the lives of young people for over 30 years. Within the Polaris Community, we have over 15 SEN schools across the UK that work together to provide each pupil with a tailored, diverse and appropriate education in a safe, supportive environment that promotes engagement, inspires learning and encourages achievement. We're also incredibly proud that 100% of our inspected 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 your pupil(s) 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, e.g. 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, e.g. 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.

Equal Opportunities & Safeguarding

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.