At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students in lessons, promote independence, and adapt resources for diverse learning needs.
- Company: West Somerset College, dedicated to student success and community impact.
- Benefits: Generous pension scheme, employee discounts, flexible working options, and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to inclusion and professional integrity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing your skills in a vibrant school setting.
- Qualifications: Strong literacy and numeracy skills; experience with children is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 15712 - 15712 £ per year.
At West Somerset College, we are passionate about giving every student the best possible chance to thrive, achieve and feel included. We’re looking for an enthusiastic, reliable and compassionate Teaching Assistant to join our supportive team. If you’re committed to helping young people succeed and want to make a genuine difference in our Minehead community, we’d love to hear from you.
About the Role
As a Teaching Assistant, you’ll work closely with teachers to support learning, promote independence and help students achieve their best. You’ll contribute to classroom delivery, adapt resources for individual needs, including those with SEND, and help maintain a safe, inclusive and positive environment where every student feels valued.
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Supporting students in lessons and small groups to help them stay on track and build independence
- Adapting activities and materials to suit a range of learning needs, including those with SEND
- Promoting positive behaviour and emotional wellbeing across the school
- Preparing learning resources and assisting with classroom admin
- Tracking student progress and feeding into lesson planning and reviews
- Building strong, respectful relationships with pupils, colleagues, and families
- Upholding safeguarding and wellbeing as a top priority
What We’re Looking For
We’re looking for someone who is:
- Positive, caring and genuinely motivated to help young people succeed
- Calm, adaptable and able to thrive in a busy school environment
- Confident using ICT and comfortable working with a wide range of learners
- Committed to inclusion, equality and professional integrity
To thrive in this role, you’ll bring:
- Strong literacy and numeracy skills (GCSE English and Maths at Grade C/4 or above)
- Experience working with children or young people
- The ability to build trust, communicate clearly and work collaboratively with others
A Level 3 qualification in Supporting Teaching and Learning is ideal, but not essential—we welcome applicants who are keen to work towards it. Experience in a school setting, knowledge of the national curriculum, and confidence supporting students with SEND would all be strong advantages.
What We Offer:
- Generous local government pension scheme with employer contributions of more than 24%
- Employee Reward Scheme including high-street discounts and a staff wellbeing centre.
Closing date for applications: Wednesday 4th March 2026 at 11:59pm. Anticipated interview date: 12th March 2026.
We believe in hiring for potential and this means that we value individuals for the knowledge skills and experience that they have developed in every aspect of their lives. If you don’t feel that you meet all of the criteria listed in the person specification, we would still encourage you to apply. We care about our staff and provide a number of benefits in addition to salary including a positive and supportive working environment, employer pension contribution of at least 23%, generous annual leave entitlement for all-year round staff, on-site gyms, free parking, access to a retail discounts platform and Employee Assistance Programme. Helping you achieve a good work life balance is important to us. Lots of our colleagues work flexibly including part time hours and/or job shares and we are happy to discuss these opportunities with you.
We truly believe that diversity of thought, culture, background and perspective secure the best outcomes for our students. We strive to build teams that represent our local communities and welcome applications from individuals who identify as members of an under-represented group and in particular individuals who identify as BAME, disabled or LGBT. We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share its commitment. Our mission is that all children achieve. This post is exempt from Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974). A comprehensive screening process will be undertaken on all applicants, which will include a check with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Teaching Assistant - Part Time in Minehead employer: Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust
Bridgwater College Academy is an exceptional employer that prioritises the professional growth and well-being of its staff. With a strong commitment to inclusive education, we offer extensive development opportunities, a supportive work culture, and a range of benefits including flexible working arrangements, generous pension contributions, and access to wellness resources. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people while enjoying a fulfilling career in a nurturing environment.
Contact Details:
Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant - Part Time in Minehead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at West Somerset College on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions. Think about how your experiences align with the role of a Teaching Assistant. We want to hear how you can make a difference in the classroom!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for education! During the interview, share specific examples of how you've supported young people in the past. This will demonstrate your commitment to helping students thrive.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our supportive team at West Somerset College.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant - Part Time in Minehead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for helping young people shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in the lives of students.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. Mention any relevant experience working with children or young people, especially those with SEND.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. Use simple language to express your ideas, and make sure to proofread for any typos or errors. We appreciate well-organised applications!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details and can consider you for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Teaching Assistant. Familiarise yourself with how to support students, especially those with SEND, and think about specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your ability to adapt resources and promote independence.
✨Show Your Passion for Education
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for helping young people shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to making a difference in students' lives. This will resonate well with the interviewers at West Somerset College, who are looking for someone genuinely motivated to support their community.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle various classroom situations. Think about scenarios involving behaviour management, supporting diverse learning needs, or working collaboratively with teachers. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask questions that show your interest in the role and the school. Inquire about the support available for Teaching Assistants, how they promote inclusion, or what professional development opportunities exist. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.
