Teaching Assistant

Do you find joy in helping children grow – those quiet, understated moments when confidence builds, independence blossoms and a pupil feels truly seen? Do you enjoy being the steady, reassuring presence that helps classrooms run smoothly and ensures every child feels safe, encouraged and ready to learn?

At Ferndown Middle School, every child is known, valued and supported. Our pupils thrive because of the dedicated adults who nurture, guide and celebrate them each day. We’re a warm, inclusive and ambitious community where kindness and teamwork shape everything we do.

We are looking for a caring, committed and quietly brilliant Teaching Assistant to join our friendly team. If you believe in children, understand the power of encouragement and want your work to have real, human impact, you’ll feel right at home here.

What you’ll do:

• Support pupils in lessons – individually, in small groups and occasionally with whole classes
• Build positive relationships, encourage independence and promote consistent, positive behaviour
• Assist pupils with a range of needs, including SEND
• Help create calm, well‑organised learning spaces and maintain key records
• Work closely with teachers to support routines, learning activities and communication
• Supervise pupils at break/lunch and contribute to a welcoming, supportive school environment
• Be part of the everyday magic that makes learning happen, and make a difference where it matters most

Who you are:

• Someone who brings warmth, patience and positivity into the room
• Calm, reliable and grounded, even on energetic school days
• Empathetic and encouraging, with a genuine desire to help children thrive
• Confident supporting learning and able to use initiative in busy classrooms
• Respectful and discreet, with a strong understanding of confidentiality
• Skilled at supporting a range of needs, including pupils with SEND
• Qualified at Level 2 (or working towards it), with a strong commitment to developing your expertise
• A clear communicator with GCSE Maths and English (Grade C or above)
• Someone who values teamwork and enjoys learning and growing professionally
• The kind of person who can find the humour in a day – and share it