At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teachers and students in a primary school, enhancing learning experiences.
- Company: GSL Education is a dedicated recruitment agency focused on quality education staff across the UK.
- Benefits: Earn £12.82 per hour, gain practical experience, and enjoy a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while kickstarting your career in education.
- Qualifications: A genuine interest in education; previous experience with children is a plus.
- Other info: Must have an enhanced DBS or be willing to apply for one.
Location: Southampton, Hampshire
Salary: £12.82 per hour
Start Date: Immediate or September 2025
Contract Type: Full-time
Are you passionate about working with children and looking to gain valuable experience in a mainstream primary school setting? Whether you're an aspiring teacher, recent graduate, or someone seeking a rewarding career in education, this is an excellent opportunity to start making a difference.
GSL Education are currently recruiting a committed and enthusiastic Teaching Assistant to work full-time in a vibrant and welcoming primary school in Southampton.
About the Role:
As a Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with classroom teachers and pastoral teams to support students’ academic, social, and emotional development. You will play a crucial role in helping students remain engaged, confident, and successful in their learning journey.
Key Responsibilities:
- Supporting pupils in the classroom across Key Stage 1 and/or Key Stage 2.
- Working closely with class teachers to deliver engaging lessons and interventions.
- Assisting pupils with learning activities, promoting progress and development.
- Providing tailored support for individuals or small groups of students.
- Helping to create a positive and inclusive learning environment.
- Supporting children with additional needs, where required.
Candidate Profile:
- A genuine interest in working within a primary school setting.
- Ideally, previous experience with children or young people (formal or informal).
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- A proactive, adaptable, and nurturing approach to learning support.
- Recent graduates and those seeking school-based experience before pursuing teacher training are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Have an updated CV (covering the last ten years barring any unexplained gaps) and an enhanced DBS registered to the Update Service (or be willing to apply for one).
Why Join GSL Education?
- Competitive hourly rate of £12.82.
- Supportive environment with guidance from experienced consultants.
- Opportunity to gain practical experience and kickstart your education career.
- Long-term opportunities in primary schools across Gosport and Hampshire.
Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection and that successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks; including providing an enhanced DBS certificate registered on the update service, or completing an application for a new check.
As an ethical, inclusive and independent recruitment agency, GSL Education are committed to providing quality teaching and support staff in schools across the UK.
For more information or to register your interest in the role, or to be considered, please click 'apply now' to submit your full and up-to-date CV and one of our dedicated consultants will be in touch.
Refer a Friend Bonus – Earn £100! Know someone who would be a great fit for this role? Refer a friend to GSL Education and receive a £100 bonus once the referral has worked 5 days through GSL Education!
Contact Detail:
GUARDIAN SELECTION LIMITED Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant (TA)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the primary school curriculum and key stage expectations. Understanding what students are learning will help you engage more effectively with them and demonstrate your commitment to supporting their education.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain some hands-on experience by volunteering or shadowing in a classroom setting. This will not only enhance your understanding of the role but also provide you with valuable insights that you can discuss during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current teaching assistants or educators in your area. They can offer advice on what schools are looking for and may even provide referrals or recommendations that could strengthen your application.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to supporting children with additional needs. Being able to articulate your strategies and experiences in this area will show your potential employer that you are ready to take on the challenges of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant (TA)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience working with children or in educational settings. Emphasise any roles where you've supported learning, as this will resonate with the Teaching Assistant position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for education and working with children. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your communication skills and nurturing approach, which are key for this role.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on skills such as adaptability, teamwork, and interpersonal communication. These are crucial for supporting students' academic and emotional development in a classroom setting.
Prepare for Safeguarding Questions: Be ready to discuss your understanding of safeguarding and child protection during the application process. Familiarise yourself with relevant policies and be prepared to explain how you would ensure a safe learning environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at GUARDIAN SELECTION LIMITED
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Make sure to express your genuine interest in working with children and your enthusiasm for education. Share any relevant experiences, whether formal or informal, that highlight your commitment to supporting students' learning and development.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations in the classroom. Think about examples where you've supported students, managed challenges, or contributed to a positive learning environment. This will demonstrate your proactive and adaptable approach.
✨Highlight Communication Skills
Strong communication is key in a teaching assistant role. Be ready to discuss how you effectively communicate with both students and teachers. Provide examples of how you've built rapport with children or collaborated with colleagues in previous roles.
✨Understand Safeguarding Principles
Since the role requires knowledge of safeguarding and child protection, be prepared to discuss these topics. Familiarise yourself with basic principles and be ready to explain how you would ensure a safe and supportive environment for all students.