Teaching Assistant

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

Benefits offered by this job

Company Pension

Life Assurance

Employee Discount Scheme

Job summary

Polaris Education - Holdsworth School in Burnley, Lancashire, is seeking a dedicated Teaching Assistant to support one pupil or small groups and assist teachers in delivering lessons. The role operates on a full-time, term-time schedule within a nurturing educational environment.

The successful candidate will contribute to the pupil's progress, engage in behaviour management, and participate in school activities. DBS checks are required and cost covered by Polaris Community.

Qualifications

• GCSE English and Maths (minimum grade C or equivalent).
• Previous experience as a Teaching Assistant.
• Experience working with pupils with SEMH in an education setting.
• Willing to undertake an Enhanced DBS check.
• Ability to take on additional responsibilities in school areas (e.g., Food Hygiene, Forest School, Lunchtimes, School Yoga).
• Experience of behaviour management and techniques.
• Committed to professional development and learning.

Responsibilities

• Mentor and support one pupil or a small group (up to six pupils).
• Support the classroom teacher during lessons.
• Report on pupils' progress and liaise with staff to meet needs.
• Supervise pupils during non-classroom time including trips and activities.
• Assist with lesson planning and classroom preparation.
• Set work where appropriate and mark.
• Build positive relationships with pupils to drive learning outcomes.

Education

GCSE English & Maths

Job description

Teaching Assistant

Date: 2026-10-01

Location: Nelson, Lancashire, GB, BB9 7

Employment Type: Full Time

Application Deadline: 2026-10-29 at 15:00:54

Polaris Education - Holdsworth School

Position: Teaching Assistant

Contract: Full-Time, Term Time Only

Salary: £21,257.48 - £23,232.69

Benefits: Company Pension, Life Assurance, Employee Discount Scheme

Location: Burnley, Lancashire

About the School

Located in Burnley, Lancashire, our school has the capacity for up to 48 pupils and offers a safe and supportive environment 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 forms 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, i.e., Teaching Assistant
• Some previous experience working with pupils with SEMH within an educational setting
• Be experienced and confident enough to take additional responsibility in an area of school, such as 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, the 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.