Teaching Assistant - EYFS and KS1

Hereford Cathedral School; Hereford; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 19,000; Full time

Job summary

Hereford Cathedral School is seeking a Teaching Assistant (Pre-Prep) at its Junior School site in Hereford. The role runs 8:15am to 3:35pm, five days a week during term time plus five weeks, with an annual salary in the stated hourly range.

The post focuses on supporting pupils across the Pre-Prep phase, including swimming and outdoor learning activities, while working closely with teachers to foster a safe, inclusive and stimulating classroom environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in supporting diverse pupil needs.
• Ability to work with teachers to support learning.
• Commitment to safeguarding and pupil welfare.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils' educational, physical, emotional, social and cultural development.
• Work closely with teachers to provide high-quality care and education.
• Help create a warm, safe and stimulating learning environment for all pupils.
• Support learning through practical, play-based and teacher-led activities.
• Encourage independence, confidence and positive attitudes to learning.
• Assist with regular outdoor learning and swimming sessions for younger pupils.
• Contribute to the Pre-Prep environment and daily school life.
• Follow safeguarding, health and safety policies.

Skills

Patience

Communication

Teamwork

Childcare

Job description

Post title: Teaching Assistant (Pre-Prep)

Location: Hereford Cathedral Junior School

Contract: Permanent

Hours/weeks: 8.15am-3.35pm 5 days a week. term time (36 weeks a year) + 5 weeks

Salary: £12.71- £13.12 an hour (working pattern this equates to between £20,729 -£21,404)

Start date: November 2026

General Duties

• Support pupils' educational, physical, emotional, social and cultural development.
• Work closely with teachers and colleagues to provide high-quality care, support and education.
• Help create a warm, safe and stimulating learning environment where all pupils can flourish.
• Support learning through a range of practical, play based and teacher led activities.
• Encourage pupils to develop independence, confidence, resilience and positive attitudes to learning.
• Ensure pupils have regular access to outdoor learning and play opportunities.
• Prepare and maintain classrooms and learning areas, ensuring resources are organised and readily available.
• Support weekly swimming sessions with pupils from Reception to Year 2, including support in the water.
• Contribute positively to the day-to-day life of the Pre-Prep department.
• Follow all safeguarding, health and safety, and school policies and procedures.

Learning and Development .

• Contribute to the planning and delivery of engaging learning opportunities to meet the needs of all pupils.
• Support pupils individually, in small groups and within whole class teaching activities.
• Clarify instructions and help pupils understand tasks and expectations.
• Support the development of literacy, numeracy and communication skills.
• Encourage active participation in learning both indoors and outdoors.
• Observe pupils' learning and share information with class teachers to support assessment and future planning.
• Support the maintenance of pupil records and learning journals where appropriate.
• Help meet the needs of pupils with SEND or other additional needs.
• Model and promote high standards of language, learning behaviour and presentation.
• Contribute to displays that celebrate pupils' achievements and support learning.

Pupil Welfare

• Promote the health, welfare and safety of pupils at all times.
• Support pupils with personal care, toileting and hygiene needs where appropriate.
• Encourage pupils to develop independence in managing their personal needs.
• Build positive relationships that promote confidence, wellbeing and self-esteem.
• Administer basic first aid and support specific medical needs following appropriate training.
• Maintain accurate records of first aid treatment where required.
• Supervise pupils safely during indoor and outdoor play.
• Engage positively in play and learning activities.
• Support the schools behaviour expectations and use positive behaviour strategies.
• Ensure meal and snack times are safe, pleasant and sociable experiences.
• Follow pupils' medical, dietary and care plans.
• Maintain appropriate confidentiality regarding pupils, families and colleagues.
• Share relevant pastoral information with the Head of Pre-Prep and class teachers.

Resources and Supervision

• Ensure appropriate supervision of pupils throughout the school day.
• Help maintain classrooms and resources to a high standard.
• Encourage pupils to take care of equipment, resources and learning spaces.
• Ensure resources are organised, stored safely and readily available for learning.

Communication

• Build positive relationships with pupils, parents and colleagues.
• Share relevant information regarding pupil progress, wellbeing and achievement with class teachers.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues to support pupils' daily routines and individual needs.
• Liaise with after school staff where appropriate.
• Work closely with members of the Pre-Prep team to support learning and transition between year groups.
• Ensure records, emails and school communication systems are kept up to date.

Working with Others

• Be a positive, professional role model for pupils and colleagues.
• Work collaboratively and supportively as part of the Pre-Prep and wider Junior School team.
• Promote an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and respected.

Training and Professional Development

• Attend INSET days, staff meetings and training as required.
• Take an active interest in professional development and seek opportunities to develop knowledge and skills.
• Participate fully in the school's appraisal process.
• Keep up to date with relevant educational practice, safeguarding requirements and statutory guidance.

Other Duties

• Attend parents' evenings, Open Days and other school events as required.
• Carry out break, lunch and supervision duties as directed.
• Support educational visits and enrichment activities.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties commensurate with the role.