We are seeking a kind and experienced Teaching Assistant. The successful candidate will be expected to support KS2 class teachers and lead intervention groups as directed, and also to promote and safeguard the welfare of all children.

Description

Job Overview

Part Time 3 days per week during term time

Core Hours (non-negotiable) - 8am - 4.05pm

Extra paid hours are available in Aftercare.

Salary

F/T equivalent £19,633 per annum, plus extra paid hours available in Aftercare. Support Staff are enrolled into The Pensions Trust pension scheme with generous employer contributions and associated benefits.

Job type: Part Time, Maternity Cover

Start date: ASAP

Benefits of working at our school

The Blue Coat School is a diverse and vibrant community. We pride ourselves on cultivating a staff community who are innovative and dynamic teachers, knowledgeable and passionate support staff, and creative, forward-thinking leaders.

All staff have access to a range of benefits including ongoing CPD, a delicious free lunch each day during term time, remuneration on fees, access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, use of fitness facilities, social and wellbeing events and free on-site parking.

Support Staff are enrolled into a direct contribution pension scheme with generous employer contributions and associated benefits.

Qualifications/Professional Development

QTS or Level 3 qualification

Paediatric First Aid qualification would be desirable

Food Hygiene qualification would be desirable

Evidence of recent involvement in professional development

Experience and skills

Experience of working with and caring for children aged 7 to 11 with an understanding of how to meet each child’s needs

Experience of planning, leading and participating in activities to support the learning of children in KS2

Effective communication and listening skills

Knowledge

Sound understanding of safeguarding principles

Sound knowledge of early childhood development

Knowledge of current good practice for children aged 7 – 11

Sound knowledge and experience of the KS2 principles

Personal attributes

Sympathy with the Christian ethos and activities of the school

Ability to form and maintain positive relationships

Sensitivity to others and the ability to work cooperatively

Wholehearted commitment to the life of a vibrant school community

A full job description and person specification can be viewed in the Information Booklet below.

All members of staff are required to promote and safeguard the welfare of children they are responsible for, or come into contact with, and to adhere to, and ensure compliance with, the School’s child protection procedures and staff guidance at all times.

Please note this is a temporary maternity cover, which will terminate upon the return of the employee on maternity leave. We expect that she will return no earlier than 9 months from the start of your contract, but it could be up to 12 months after. If the employee informs us that she has decided to return from maternity leave earlier than expected we reserve the right to terminate the contract, but would give 6 weeks’ notice.

A full job description and person specification for the post can be viewed in the Information Booklet. Application forms, together with a supporting letter addressed to the Headmaster, Mr Noel Neeson, should be returned to recruitment@thebluecoatschool.com by 9am on Friday 16 January 2026.

Interviews will take place on Thursday 22 January 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to prepare an activity for a small group of children, and attend a formal interview. There will also be an opportunity to tour the school on the interview day. At interview applicants must provide original documents to confirm their identity and right to work in the UK. They must also bring proof of qualifications where relevant for the post. The documentation required by applicants is listed in the Recruitment Policy which is available on the school website and from the School. All other attributes will be assessed using the contents of the application form, at interview and with the professional references.

The post is subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check (including a Barred List check), a satisfactory online check, a satisfactory medical fitness declaration and satisfactory references. Confidential references will be sought prior to interview.

The Blue Coat School is an equal opportunity employer.

Please note, we reserve the right to close posts and commence interviews at any time, once we have received sufficient applications. We advise you to submit your application as early as possible to prevent disappointment.