Teaching Assistant

Roles and responsibilities

• Work with groups or individuals to support learning across the curriculum.
• Listen to pupils read effectively, using school policy and phonic methods.
• Listen to teacher introductions/teaching to pupils and use the same techniques/way of working to help pupils.
• Encourage independence – e.g., helping the children to achieve their objectives through questioning, engaging in dialogue, demonstrating and modeling (as opposed to answering a question directly), organizing their belongings, personal hygiene, and needs.
• Demonstrate a sense of when either the teacher or a pupil needs assistance.
• Record required information on pupil activities as directed by the teacher.
• Administrative tasks such as displays, preparing resources, and setting up the classroom for the day with the guidance of the class teacher
• Help children to develop their language skills by engaging them in meaningful communication
• Build positive relationships with the children, demonstrate enthusiasm, patience, and understanding, and treat them in a respectful, responsible, and fair manner.
• Supervise the children at break time, whilst moving around the school when on school trips, and during specialist lessons when required. Positively manage the children’s behavior and always act as a positive role model.
• Ensure confidentiality at all times, both in and out of school, as unauthorized disclosure is a disciplinary matter.
• To be flexible and adaptable and willing to be an active member of the school community.
• To work closely with the class teacher to make sure that there is effective communication, both oral and written, concerning lessons, pupil progress, and learning.
• Be aware of what is expected in each lesson and be familiar with lesson plans.
• Professional Development - If there is an aspect of your work that you are not confident with or you wish to develop further, you must be proactive in asking for support.
• To relay any concerns that you have about the children initially to the class teacher

Desired candidate profile

• Child Development Knowledge: Understanding the developmental milestones and needs of young children, ensuring appropriate support.

• Classroom Support: Assisting the teacher with daily classroom activities, including lesson preparation, managing materials, and facilitating learning experiences.

• Engagement Techniques: Using creative methods to engage children in activities, fostering a love for learning through play and exploration.

• Behavior Management: Implementing positive behavior management strategies to create a supportive and nurturing classroom environment.

• Communication Skills: Effectively communicating with children, staff, and parents, providing updates on progress and any concerns.

• Observational Skills: Observing children’s interactions and development to provide feedback and support individualized learning.

• Collaboration: Working closely with the lead teacher and other staff to ensure a cohesive approach to education and care.

• Health and Safety Awareness: Maintaining a safe and clean learning environment, adhering to health and safety protocols.

• Adaptability: Being flexible and responsive to the varying needs of children and classroom dynamics.

• Professional Development: Committing to ongoing training and learning about best practices in early childhood education.