Teaching Assistant (Qualified or Unqualified Pathway)

Tradewind Recruitment; Lancashire; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Term-time hours

Pro-rata pay

Free CPD training

Career progression

Job summary

Tradewind Recruitment in Preston is seeking dedicated Teaching Assistants to start September 2026 across primary, secondary and specialist provisions. Whether you're qualified Level 2/3 TA or unqualified with a funded entry route, we offer structured mentorship and on-the-job training.

Join our cohort to deliver 1:1 and small-group support, assist pupils with diverse needs, and progress toward QTS pathways through SCITT or assessment-only routes.

Qualifications

• Level 2/3 TA qualification or equivalent.
• Experience supporting pupils in a classroom setting is desirable.
• Willingness to undertake funded training and supervision.

Responsibilities

• Deliver 1:1 and small-group academic support to boost engagement and confidence.
• Create a positive, safe, inclusive environment for diverse learning needs and SEND.
• Assist teachers with classroom management and resource preparation.
• Support positive behaviour through trauma-informed approaches.

Skills

Classroom support

Behaviour mentoring

Pupil progress tracking

SEND support

Education

Level 2 TA qualification

Level 3 TA qualification

Job description

Overview

Looking to start or progress your career in education this September?

Whether you are an experienced, qualified Level 3 Teaching Assistant looking for a supportive new environment, or a passionate, unqualified individual searching for a fully funded foot in the door—our collaborative school network in Preston wants to hear from you.

From September 2026, we are hiring a cohort of dedicated Teaching Assistants across our primary, secondary, and specialist provisions. We meet you exactly where you are in your career, providing structured mentorship for those with experience and comprehensive on-the-job training for those starting fresh.

Pathways

Pathway A: The Experienced/Qualified TA

• Who you are: You hold a Level 2 or Level 3 TA qualification (or equivalent) and possess a strong track record of classroom support.

• The Role: You will hit the ground running, leading small group literacy or numeracy interventions, supporting pupils with EHCPs (Special Educational Needs), and working hand-in-hand with class teachers to track pupil progress.

Pathway B: The Trainee/Unqualified TA

• Who you are: No school-based experience? No problem. If you have a background in sports coaching, youth work, care, or are a recent graduate looking for a meaningful career change, this is your route.

• The Role: You will start on a fully supported placement, acting as classroom assistance, managing learning resources, and working 1:1 as a behaviour mentor while training for your formal qualifications.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver targeted 1:1 and small-group academic support to boost pupil engagement and confidence.

• Create a positive, safe, and inclusive environment that accommodates diverse learning needs and SEND requirements.

• Assist teachers with classroom management, resource preparation, and emotional coaching.

• Manage student behaviour effectively using trauma-informed and positive reinforcement practices.

What We Offer Our Preston Team

• Competitive Pay: Pro-rata salary aligned with Lancashire local authority NJC pay scales.

• The Perfect Balance: Term-time hours only (enjoy school holidays off).

• Professional Growth: Free CPD training modules including Safeguarding, Autumn Term Phonics, and Team Teach (De-escalation).

• Teacher Progression: For those interested, a fast-track internal route into school-centered initial teacher training (SCITT) or assessment-only QTS pathways.

Application Requirements

• A genuine passion for boosting the life chances of young people in Preston.

• Exceptional communication skills, immense patience, and emotional resilience.

• An Enhanced DBS check registered to the Update Service (or a willingness to process a new one immediately).

How to Apply

Secure your placement ahead of the busy September 2026 academic year. Please submit an up-to-date CV, indicating clearly whether you are applying for our Qualified or Unqualified development pathway.