Teaching Assistant (Primary)

Thomas Deacon Education Trust; Peterborough; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

An educational trust in Peterborough seeks a Teaching Assistant to support primary-aged children in re-engaging with education. Your role involves creating a positive learning environment, working closely with pupils with special educational needs, and collaborating with teachers and parents. The ideal candidate will be patient and empathetic, and possess strong communication skills. This position, fixed term until January 2027, offers a salary range of £22,220 - £23,722 per annum, alongside opportunities for professional development and support.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Supportive work environment

Inclusive and diverse workplace

Qualifications

• Experience working with children, particularly those with SEND or SEMH needs.
• Ability to support teaching and learning effectively.
• Confidence in creating a nurturing and supportive environment.

Responsibilities

• Support the teaching and learning of primary-aged children.
• Help re-engage pupils with education in a nurturing environment.
• Work closely with teachers and parents to personalize support.

Skills

Empathy

Patience

Strong communication

Behaviour management

Support for literacy and numeracy

Job description

Teaching Assistant

Contract: Fixed Term until 15th January 2027
Hours: 32.5 hours, 39 weeks (term time plus one week)
Working Pattern: 8.45am – 3.45am Monday to Friday
Salary: Pathway 4, £22,220 - £23,722 per annum (FTE £29,540 - £31,537)
Site: Richard Barnes Academy (Fitzwilliam Campus)
Closing date: 9am on Monday 5th January
Start date: ASAP
Please note the trust may decide to withdraw the advert before the closing date or interview suitable candidates prior to the advert closing.

Do you want to help primary‑aged pupils rediscover Ambition when learning has felt challenging?
Are you ready to build Character through calm, consistent and trusting relationships?
Can you create a Safe, steady environment for children who need extra support to thrive?

Your role:

You’ll support teaching and learning of our primary‑aged children, helping them re‑engage with education in a nurturing alternative provision shaped by our core pillars of Ambition, Character and Safe. You’ll work with individuals and small groups, clarifying instructions, encouraging focus, and guiding pupils through challenges so they can build strong learning habits and emotional resilience. You will model positive communication, use consistent behaviour strategies, and help create calm, purposeful classrooms where young learners feel secure and ready to progress. Working closely with teachers, senior staff, parents and external professionals, you’ll play a vital role in personalising support, especially for children with SEND or SEMH needs. This role suits someone patient, empathetic and confident in supporting literacy, numeracy and behaviour. What matters most is your commitment to helping every child move forward with ambition and the belief that they can succeed.

About us:

Richard Barnes Academy is an alternative provision academy committed to supporting and raising the aspirations of children who have been permanently excluded or are at risk of exclusion from mainstream schools. We value our staff and offer a supportive and inclusive work environment where you can make a significant impact on children’s lives, helping them achieve their full potential. Alongside making a measurable difference every day, you’ll benefit from professional development, supportive leadership, and the chance to work within a Trust that champions equality, wellbeing and continuous improvement. This is a place where staff go above and beyond—because the impact is real, visible and deeply rewarding.

Why work for us?

• Join Thomas Deacon Education Trust and be part of a dedicated team committed to “working together to transform lives through education.”
• Check out our employee benefits video.
• 95% of our new employees highly rate our induction programme.
• Benefit from the unwavering support of our dedicated staff, ensuring you feel welcomed and well‑prepared from day one.
• 91% of staff are proud to work for TDET (2025 staff survey).

Ready to transform lives through education? Apply now and make a difference!
TDET - Working together to transform lives through education
Thomas Deacon Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The Academy will require the successful candidate to provide satisfactory references and undertake an Enhanced Check with the Disclosure and Barring Service.
We are committed to equality of opportunity for all. We welcome applications from everyone, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. Join us in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where all contributions are valued.

If you have any questions regarding this post, please contact the HR Team on e-mail at [e-mail]