Teaching Assistant

Key Requirements

• Support the teacher in curriculum planning, evaluation and implementation.
• Support the delivery of lessons and interact with the teacher and pupils as required.
• Undertake agreed learning activities/teaching programmes, adjusting activities according to pupil responses.
• Support and use ICT in learning activities and develop pupils’ competence and independence in its use.
• Support individuals or groups during independent/group work, e.g. explain tasks, reinforce key objectives/concepts or vocabulary, use practical apparatus, support less able pupils, extend/challenge more able pupils, and keep pupils on task, motivated and engaged.
• Provide occasional support to the whole class for short periods (e.g. story reading or leading a short activity), under the direction of the teacher.
• Help pupils to develop communication skills, including through role play activities.
• Promote inclusion and acceptance of all pupils, encouraging them to interact, work cooperatively and engage in activities.
• Promote independence and support the development of pupils’ self-esteem.
• Support the personal, social and emotional development of pupils.
• Assist with the development and implementation of IEPs and behaviour plans.
• Use specialist skills, knowledge or training to provide support in specific areas.
• Encourage and reinforce positive interactions between pupils, particularly in line with behaviour targets.
• Identify and report any uncharacteristic behaviour patterns to the teacher.
• Assist with pupil supervision on trips off the premises, under the overall guidance of the teacher.
• Monitor and support the general care, safety and welfare of pupils, including tasks connected with their social inclusion and personal/physical care.
• Provide short-term, occasional cover for whole classes, delivering pre-prepared work under the direction of a teacher or senior leader, in line with school policy.

Experience (Desirable)

• Hold a recognised and relevant NVQ level 2 Teaching Assistant qualification and have undertaken other appropriate training (preferably leading to national standards at NVQ level 3) or be able to demonstrate equivalent knowledge, experience and skills
• Minimum GCSE (or equivalent) English and Maths at grades A-C
• Have good communication and listening skills and be able to present information verbally and in writing to others
• Have experience of TA work
• Have attended further training on aspects of the curriculum or areas of specific special need
• Have good level of knowledge and understanding of at least one area of learning (eg . English, maths, science)
• Display commitment to the protection and safeguarding of children and young people
• Value and respect the views and needs of children
• Understand school’s policies and how they relate to local and national frameworks/policies (eg child protection, health and safety, equal ops, SEN).