Teaching Assistant

Teaching Vacancies; Oxford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A Special Educational Needs school is seeking a dedicated individual to support children in learning activities and personal care. The ideal candidate will have experience working with children, possess strong teamwork skills, and demonstrate a commitment to supporting an inclusive environment. Responsibilities include assisting with teaching, compiling assessment data, and providing welfare care. Relevant qualifications such as First Aid and GCSEs in English and Maths are desirable. This position offers a fulfilling role within a supportive educational setting in Oxford.

Benefits

Strong support from staff and therapists

Professional development opportunities

Safe learning environment

Qualifications

• Experience of working with children.
• Physical fitness for manual handling and swimming support.
• Desire to contribute to an inclusive environment.

Responsibilities

• Support teaching in indoor and outdoor learning classes.
• Assist with pupil assessment data compilation.
• Comply with Health and Safety legislation.

Skills

Support teaching in learning classes

Ability to work as part of a team

Positive outlook and enthusiasm

Commitment to equal opportunities

Flexibility and adaptability

Education

GCSE Grade C or above in English and Maths

First Aid qualification

Safeguarding qualification

Job description

What skills and experience we’re looking for

Essential Responsibilities

• Support teaching in indoor and outdoor learning classes as timetabled.
• Support pupils under Shared Care Protocols, providing full medical and welfare care with training in medical interventions.
• Produce or reproduce materials to support teaching in base and mainstream lessons.
• Assist the teacher in compiling pupil assessment data.
• Support pupils in integrated lessons at Wheatley Primary School and Wheatley Park School.
• Support pupils in informal sessions such as break‑times and personal care needs.
• Participate in off‑site activities such as horse riding, swimming and residential trips.
• Attend weekly team development meetings and whole‑staff meetings once a term.
• Participate in professional development activities as required.
• Comply with Health and Safety legislation and school policies.
• Perform any other class duties directed by the Headteacher, Deputy Headteachers or class teacher.

Essential Qualifications

• Experience of working with children.
• Desire and ability to work as part of a team.
• Ability to work under direction and use initiative as the situation demands.
• Commitment to equal opportunities and contribution to an inclusive environment.
• Physical fitness to cope with manual handling, running, and supporting children in water during swimming sessions.
• Flexible and adaptable approach, able to move across teams or school sites.
• Positive outlook and enthusiasm for the job.

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience working with children with disabilities, particularly learning difficulties.
• GCSE Grade C or above or equivalent in English and Maths.
• First Aid qualification.
• Safeguarding qualification.

What the school offers its staff

• Safety
• Learning
• Independence
• Communication
• Engagement

About the School

John Watson School is a Special School in Wheatley that caters for children with Special Educational Needs from ages 2 to 19. We aim to create a happy, healthy, secure learning environment where the needs of all pupils are met, enabling each child to reach their individual potential. We provide integrated educational experiences across nursery, primary and secondary levels and support pupils in practical and social skills for school, home and community life.

Our small classes (typically less than 10 pupils) work within large teams of support staff and NHS therapists. We have a unique relationship with Wheatley Nursery School who share our site.

Safeguarding and Recruitment

Oxfordshire Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post requires a Disclosure and Barring Service check. A criminal record will not necessarily prevent an applicant from obtaining this post; all cases are considered confidentially and according to the nature of the role and information disclosed.

Application Process

Please complete the application form on our website and submit it by email to [e-mail]. Applications will be considered upon receipt and interviews will be arranged accordingly. Do not send CVs – only the application will be considered. As part of our recruitment process, an overseas check will be required prior to interview.

Previous applicants should not re‑apply. Start date: February/March 2026. Closing date: 8th February 2026.