Teaching Assistant

Coast and Vale Learning Trust; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Chichester Academy Trust is seeking two Teaching Assistants to join a welcoming school community in Portsmouth. You will support pupils one-to-one, in small groups and in class, helping academic, social and emotional development while preparing learning resources.

A relational approach, strong communication and teamwork are essential to promote a positive culture and high expectations. Ideal candidates will have experience with primary-aged children and be resilient, adaptable

Qualifications

• Experience of working with children of primary school age.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a caring team.

Responsibilities

• Support children's academic, social, emotional and physical development.
• Assist with learning activities in one-to-one, small group and classroom settings.
• Prepare and organise learning resources to promote progress and independence.
• Build positive relationships with children, families, colleagues and external professionals.
• Promote high expectations, good behaviour and a positive learning culture.

Skills

Primary school experience

Communication skills

Job description

Position Description

We are delighted to be seeking two enthusiastic and dedicated Teaching Assistants to join our happy, welcoming and supportive school community.

We are looking for individuals who are passionate about helping every child succeed and who share our commitment to providing a nurturing, relational and inclusive environment where children feel safe, valued and able to thrive.

Working under the guidance of the Class Teacher and Assistant Headteacher, you will play a vital role in supporting children's academic, social, emotional and physical development. Your contribution will help ensure that every pupil receives the encouragement, care and opportunities they need to achieve and flourish.

The successful candidates will work with pupils on a one-to-one basis, in small groups and within the wider classroom environment, supporting a broad range of learning activities. You will assist with the preparation and organisation of learning resources and help create engaging learning experiences that promote progress, independence and confidence.

A key aspect of this role will be building positive and trusting relationships with children, families, colleagues and external professionals. We are seeking individuals who understand the importance of a relational approach and who can work collaboratively to provide the very best support for our pupils' learning, wellbeing and development. You will actively promote high expectations, excellent behaviour and a positive learning culture throughout the school.

Ideally, you will have experience of working with children of primary school age and possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills. You will be resilient, adaptable and committed to making a positive difference to children's lives. Equally important is your ability to work independently when required whilst contributing effectively as part of a caring and dedicated team.

If you are enthusiastic, compassionate and committed to helping children flourish, we would love to hear from you.

The University of Chichester Academy Trust

You will be part of The University of Chichester Academy Trust, which is uniquely positioned to make a difference in the local educational landscape. The Trust currently encompasses 17 academies, 2 Inclusion centres, and a School-Centred Initial Teacher Training base, all based in Hampshire, Portsmouth, and West Sussex. While we share a common vision and values, each academy has its own identity that contributes to its local community. The Trust is committed to valuing the uniqueness of each school.

Two-Week October Half Term

We have introduced a two-week October half-term across all our schools. This initiative is already making a positive impact, giving staff and pupils a valuable break during the long autumn term, reducing absence through illness, and supporting overall well-being. It also brings greater consistency across our Trust, creating a more connected and efficient way of working. It’s just one example of how we prioritise our people and create a working environment where everyone can thrive.

Diversity and Inclusion

At the University of Chichester Academy Trust, we believe that diversity drives creativity, innovation, and excellence. We are committed to providing equality of opportunity, fostering an inclusive culture, and creating a community where everyone feels they belong. We particularly welcome applications from individuals who are underrepresented within our workforce, including those from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled individuals, LGBTQI+ individuals, and women—especially for senior leadership roles.

Safeguarding Commitment

We are dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Our recruitment and selection practices will reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks, along with other relevant employment checks.

Application Process

Visits to the school are encouraged and welcomed. For any questions about the application process, please contact Mrs J Steward, Assistant Headteacher and Leader of Inclusion on 02392 661045 or by emailing [e-mail]