At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and inspire pupils' learning and development in a vibrant primary school.
- Company: St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, part of the Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust.
- Benefits: Warm environment, enthusiastic pupils, training opportunities, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity with career growth in a well-respected education trust.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and help nurture children's potential in a caring community.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification and a passion for child development.
The predicted salary is between 26823 - 28141 € per year.
Location: St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Duckpool Lane, Whickham, NE16 4HB
Grade: Grade E SCP 8-11 (£26,823 - £28,141 per annum, pro rata)
Hours: 1 role at 35 hours per week, Permanent, TT + 1 week (39 weeks per year); 1 role at 25 hours per week – to be worked over 5 days (times to be agreed with successful candidate), Permanent TT + 1 week (39 weeks per year)
About the School: St Mary’s Catholic Primary School is a vibrant one-form entry primary school in Whickham, Gateshead serving the communities of St Mary’s, Whickham and Immaculate Heart of Mary, Lobley Hill. We aim to develop the talents of each pupil as a unique individual whose full potential can be developed in a community which has Christ at its centre.
Job Overview: We are keen to appoint two committed, highly motivated and effective Level 3 Teaching Assistants to support, nurture and inspire our pupils to achieve their full potential as outlined in our Mission Statement. The successful candidate would play a key role in supporting teaching and learning for all pupils, which may include those with an EHCP or identified additional needs.
Responsibilities:
- Supports the care, development and education of all pupils, including those with EHCPs or additional needs.
- Provides high quality support for learning, working 1:1 or with small groups to enable pupils to make progress.
- Works collaboratively with the Class Teacher and SENDCo to plan, deliver and adapt learning programmes.
- Helps to establish a positive, well-organised and engaging learning environment.
- Monitors and evaluates pupil responses to learning activities and contributes to assessment and pupil progress records.
- Contributes to EHCP targets, pupil reports and liaises with external agencies where appropriate.
- Acts as a positive link between home and school.
- Supervises pupils at breaktimes and lunchtimes.
- Meets personal care needs, including some manual handling, where required.
- Administers first aid, where trained, and always places safeguarding at the centre of their practice.
Qualifications:
- A strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
- NVQ Level 3 Teaching Assistant Qualification (or equivalent qualification e.g. NNEB).
- Good numeracy and literacy skills.
- A good understanding of the principles of child development and learning processes.
- Knowledge of the effective use of ICT to support learning – computer, video, photocopier and basic clerical skills.
- Knowledge of national/foundation stage curriculum and other effective learning strategies.
- Experience supporting children with general and specific learning difficulties.
- The ability to remain calm, patient and resilient in challenging situations.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
Benefits:
- A warm and supportive school environment.
- The opportunity to work with polite, motivated and enthusiastic pupils.
- A highly committed staff team who work closely together.
- Access to training and development opportunities through the Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust.
- A role where your contribution truly makes a difference to children’s lives.
Application Details: If you are passionate about nurturing children’s learning, wellbeing and personal development, and wish to play a meaningful role within a caring Catholic school community, we would be delighted to hear from you. For an application form and further details about this vacancy please visit our website here where applications can be completed online. Please specify in your supporting statement which role you are applying for.
Closing date: Sunday 7th June 2026 at 23:59
Shortlisting date: Week commencing 8th June 2026
Interview date: Friday 12th June 2026
Additional Information: The Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is exempt from the provisions of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act and is subject to an enhanced DBS check. An online search will be completed for all shortlisted candidates.
2 x Level 3 Teaching Assistants in Whickham employer: Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust
St Mary’s Catholic Primary School offers a nurturing and supportive environment where dedicated Level 3 Teaching Assistants can thrive. With a strong commitment to professional development through the Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust, employees are encouraged to grow their skills while making a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils. Located in the vibrant community of Whickham, this school fosters a collaborative work culture that values each individual's contribution to children's education and wellbeing.
Contact Detail:
Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 2 x Level 3 Teaching Assistants in Whickham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research St Mary’s Catholic Primary School and understand its values and mission. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff members on LinkedIn or through local education events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to teaching assistance. Think about how you would support children with additional needs and be ready to share specific examples from your experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at St Mary’s.
We think you need these skills to ace 2 x Level 3 Teaching Assistants in Whickham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for nurturing children's learning and wellbeing shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Statement:Make sure to specify which role you're applying for in your supporting statement. This helps us understand your interest and ensures we match you with the right position.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Share any experience you have working with children, especially those with additional needs. We love to see how you've supported learning in the past, so don’t hold back!
Keep It Professional Yet Personal:While we appreciate a friendly tone, remember to keep your application professional. Use clear language and structure your thoughts well to make it easy for us to read and understand your qualifications.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to understand St Mary’s Catholic Primary School's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to nurturing each pupil as a unique individual. This will help you align your answers with their ethos during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience working with children, especially those with additional needs or EHCPs. Prepare specific examples of how you've supported learning in the past, as this will demonstrate your capability and passion for the role.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions to ask about the school's approach to teaching and support. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Highlight Teamwork Skills
Since collaboration with teachers and other staff is key, be prepared to discuss how you work effectively in a team. Share examples of how you've contributed to a positive learning environment and supported colleagues in achieving educational goals.
