Teaching Assistant

Blenheim Schools; London Borough of Havering; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

Blenheim Schools is seeking a caring Teaching Assistant to support Nursery/Lower School learners at Oakfields Prep in Upminster. You will work with teachers to deliver engaging activities, monitor progress, and contribute to a safe, supportive classroom environment.

The successful candidate will hold an NVQ Level 3 in Childcare (or equivalent) and GCSEs in English and Maths. Excellent communication, teamwork, and safeguarding commitment are essential, along with IT proficiency and a patient,

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 3 in Childcare or equivalent is required.
• GCSE English and Maths at C/4 or above.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• The ability to remain calm and professional under pressure.
• Good IT skills, including competence in Microsoft Office applications.
• The ability to communicate effectively with children, parents and colleagues at all levels.
• A caring, patient and adaptable approach to supporting students.
• The confidence to use your initiative while working collaboratively with teaching staff.
• A commitment to safeguarding, student wellbeing and maintaining the highest professional standards.

Responsibilities

• Support students in accessing learning activities, including those with Special Educational Needs.
• Work alongside the class teacher to deliver high-quality learning experiences and support the planning and assessment process.
• Encourage students to develop confidence, independence and positive relationships with others.
• Monitor students' progress, adapting support where appropriate and providing regular feedback to teaching staff.
• Act as a positive role model, promoting high expectations for behaviour and learning.
• Create and maintain a purposeful, safe and stimulating classroom environment.
• Support children during group activities and one-to-one learning opportunities.
• Contribute to the planning, assessment and delivery of learning in line with the EYFS and Lower School curriculum.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure strong communication and smooth transitions for students.
• Uphold safeguarding, health and safety, and wellbeing procedures at all times.

Skills

Strong communication

Teamwork

Calm under pressure

IT skills

Interpersonal skills

Initiative

Child engagement

Education

NVQ Level 3 in Childcare

GCSE English and Maths (C/4 or above)

Job description

Lead the Past. Influence the Future To be considered for an interview, please make sure your application is full in line with the job specs as found below.

Lead the Past. Influence the Future To be considered for an interview, please make sure your application is full in line with the job specs as found below.

Job Title: Teaching Assistant

Location: Oakfields Prep, Harwood Hall Lane, RM14 2YG

Salary: £20,000.00 per annum

Hours: 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday

Contract: Permanent | Term Time

About The School

Oakfields Preparatory School is an independent day school located in Upminster, where tradition meets dynamism, creating an extraordinary pathway of opportunities for students aged 3 to 11. At Oakfields, we prioritise small class sizes and provide a nurturing and stimulating environment. We are dedicated to delivering a bespoke and enriched curriculum tailored to each student's needs. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond academics; we prioritise the holistic development of each student, fostering their caring nature and building confidence. We offer an energetic and diverse range of extra-curricular activities and enrichment programmes aimed at increasing learning opportunities for all students, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Nursery Assistant Practitioner to join our fantastic team.

Role Purpose

This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate Teaching Assistant to play a key role in supporting students' learning, development and wellbeing. Working closely with teachers and the wider Early Years/Lower School team, you will help create a positive, nurturing and engaging learning environment where every child can thrive.

In This Role, You Will

• Support students in accessing learning activities, including those with Special Educational Needs.
• Work alongside the class teacher to deliver high-quality learning experiences and support the planning and assessment process.
• Encourage students to develop confidence, independence and positive relationships with others.
• Monitor students' progress, adapting support where appropriate and providing regular feedback to teaching staff.
• Act as a positive role model, promoting high expectations for behaviour and learning.
• Create and maintain a purposeful, safe and stimulating classroom environment.
• Support children during group activities and one-to-one learning opportunities.
• Contribute to the planning, assessment and delivery of learning in line with the EYFS and Lower School curriculum.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure strong communication and smooth transitions for students.
• Uphold safeguarding, health and safety, and wellbeing procedures at all times.

About You

We are looking for a caring, enthusiastic and dedicated individual who is passionate about helping children achieve their full potential. You will enjoy building positive relationships with students and colleagues and be committed to supporting both learning and personal development.

You Will Have

• An NVQ Level 3 qualification in Childcare (or equivalent).
• GCSE English and Maths at Grade C/4 or above, or equivalent qualifications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• The ability to remain calm and professional under pressure.
• Good IT skills, including competence in Microsoft Office applications.
• The ability to communicate effectively with children, parents and colleagues at all levels.
• A caring, patient and adaptable approach to supporting students.
• The confidence to use your initiative while working collaboratively with teaching staff.
• A commitment to safeguarding, student wellbeing and maintaining the highest professional standards.

About Blenheim Schools

Blenheim Schools is a growing family of innovative, high-quality independent schools committed to enabling outstanding futures for every student. Our ethos centres on truly understanding each child, their talents, character and aspirations by providing a personalised, ambitious education that helps every child to thrive.

We deliver a broad, enriching curriculum supported by tailored teaching and exceptional pastoral care. We celebrate individuality, nurture confidence and champion every learner so they can discover their strengths and achieve their potential.

Joining Blenheim Schools means becoming part of a collaborative, forward-thinking community that values creativity, inclusion and professional growth. Our teams are united by a shared belief in the power of education to transform lives and by a commitment to delivering outstanding experiences for students and families.

We are proud to be part of OFG Education, which in 2025 was officially certified as a Great Place to Work® for the sixth consecutive year.