Teaching Assistant - St Stephen’s Catholic Primary School

Main purpose of the job:

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

  Major Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist teachers by supporting pupils in their learning in order to ensure their continuing educational development.
• Assist teachers in fostering an attractive learning environment to ensure that pupils spend their school life in stimulating surroundings.
• To assist teachers and senior managers in preparing resources and equipment as necessary, in order to support pupils' learning.
• To assist teachers to maintain clear records and observations so that pupils receive the maximum benefit from their education.

  Job Activities:

• Supervise pupils ensuring their safety and encourage pupils to be independent in order to interact with others, engage in activities led by the teacher and to act independently. Supervise and assist with any toileting needs as required.
• Establish good relationships with pupils, acting as role model reporting progress and achievements to teacher as agreed.
• Awareness of individual needs and respond appropriately ensuring all pupils have equal access to learning.
• Respond to pupils’ minor welfare and personal needs and ensuring pupils requiring regular medication are given timely reminders.
• Awareness of the school's educational and behavioural policies for developing pupils.
• Ensure the classroom is set for lessons as directed, clearing afterwards and assisting with display of pupils work.
• Record individual pupil’s behavioural difficulties, discussing with teacher appropriate responses and carrying them out.
• Undertake pupil record keeping, collecting information from/to parent/carers as directed.
• Provide basic clerical and typing support for teacher.
• Assist the teacher developing effective methods of explaining basic ICT applications and supporting pupils in their use.
• Prepare and maintain equipment/resources as directed, assisting in their use.
• Work within pre-determined guidance, policies, procedures and teachers’ guidance.
• Assist with the supervision of pupils out of lesson times, including before and after school and at lunchtimes,
• Attend weekly meetings and discussions, which contribute to the overall work of the school.

This post is a customer-facing position and falls within the scope of the Code of Practice on English Language Requirement for Public Sector Workers. The school has a statutory duty under Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016 to ensure that post holders have a command of spoken English sufficient for the effective performance of the job requirements. The appropriate standards are set out in the JD/Person Specification.

For an informal discussion about the role please contact St Stephen’s Catholic Primary school on 020 8303 9738 or email [email protected].

We offer:

• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Automatic Incremental Progression
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Effective CPD opportunities
• Collaborative working with other schools
• Excellent ICT facilities
• Opportunities for flexible working

St Stephen’s is a high performing school in the London Borough of Bexley. We employ both an author and artist in residence, as well as specialist teachers for music and PE who work alongside our class teachers to ensure every child receives a broad, balanced and bespoke curriculum. 

Our Ofsted inspection found that ‘pupils exude a love of learning and describe the school like being a second family. Behaviour is exemplary. Pupils are courteous towards adults and their peers.’

We are committed to having the best possible standards in all areas of school life. Academically, our children perform to the highest levels. Our pupils enjoy learning and the exciting opportunities provided for them. We offer a secure, happy and disciplined environment where children grow and develop into responsible young people.

St Stephen’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As such, all posts are subject to a safer recruitment process, including the disclosure of criminal records, vetting checks and online checks. We ensure that we have a range of policies and procedures in place which promote safeguarding and safer working practice across the school.

For further information about the school, please visit https://www.st-stephens.bexley.sch.uk/