Teaching Assistant

About this Role

Job Description: Teaching Assistant

Job Purpose

• To provide general support to the teacher in the management of pupils and the classroom.
• To contribute to the overall ethos, work, and aims of the school.
• To work under the instruction of teaching/senior staff, usually in the classroom with the teacher, to support access to learning for pupils.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Promote the development of numeracy, language, and speech, including providing additional support to children with special needs or bilingual learners, by working alongside the class teacher.
• Under the direction of the teacher, liaise with parents as appropriate, maintaining sensitivity and confidentiality at all times.
• Provide support and assistance for children’s pastoral needs (e.g., dressing, going to the toilet, the changing of nappies).
• Support the emotional, behavioural, and pastoral needs of all pupils, including children with SEN.
• Prepare the classroom as directed for lessons, clear afterwards, and assist with the display of pupils’ work.
• Undertake pupil record-keeping as requested by the teacher.
• Maintain awareness of pupil problems, progress, and achievements, and report to the teacher as agreed and/or appropriate.
• Establish good relationships with pupils, acting as a role model, being aware of and responding appropriately to their individual needs, and encouraging pupils to interact with others and engage in activities.
• Prepare and maintain equipment and resources as directed by the teacher, and assist pupils in their use, including basic ICT equipment.
• Provide a range of clerical and administrative support to teaching staff, including photocopying, word-processing, and filing.
• Support the teacher in managing pupil behaviour, reporting conflict and incidents in accordance with the school’s policies and procedures.
• Promote the inclusion and acceptance of all pupils.
• Assist with supervision of pupils out of lesson times, including before and after school and at lunchtimes.
• Accompany teaching staff and pupils on trips and school activities as required.
• Participate in training and development activities and programmes, and attend and participate in meetings as required.
• Appreciate and support the role of other professionals.
• Be aware of and comply with policies and procedures, and report all concerns to an appropriate person, in respect of:
• Child protection and safeguarding
• Health, safety, and security
• Confidentiality
• Data protection
• Ensure all pupils have equal access to opportunities to learn and develop.
• Undertake these duties within agreed departmental service/school objectives, policies, and procedures and promote the Council's Equal Opportunities Policy.

These duties and responsibilities should be regarded as neither exhaustive nor exclusive as the post holder may be required to undertake other reasonably determined duties and responsibilities commensurate with the grading of the post.  

The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.