At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teachers and help children thrive in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join Chestnut Park Primary, part of the GLF Schools community.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous holidays, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborate with a passionate team across multiple schools.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while growing your career.
- Qualifications: GCSE Maths and English Grade C or above; experience with SEN preferred.
The predicted salary is between 20001 - 20002 £ per year.
We are looking for a passionate and dedicated Teaching Assistant to join our team at Chestnut Park Primary. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of our pupils, supporting their learning and development in a nurturing and inclusive environment. If you are enthusiastic, patient, and committed to helping children reach their full potential, we would love to hear from you!
Your opportunity
The successful candidate will support the class teacher in accessing an engaging curriculum. They will be a talented and professional individual who shares our vision of high aspirations, achievement and a passion for learning. They will be prepared to work hard and respond positively to the challenges of day to day school life and be a strong team player.
The successful candidate should:
- Be dynamic, enthusiastic and motivated
- Be able to develop positive relationships with young children
- Be able to stay calm and objective when presented with unusual or challenging behaviour
- Have experience of working with children with SEN
- Be enthusiastic and committed to working as part of a team
- Be a confident and clear communicator with parents
- Have GCSE Maths and English Grade C or above
Please read the full job description and person specification for more information.
About Chestnut Park Primary School, part of the Chalklands Cluster
Our School sits within an established cluster of Primary schools, overseen by a Regional Director. Along with Chestnut Park, our cluster includes the following other schools; Whyteleafe Primary School, Warlingham Village Primary School, Marden Lodge Primary School, and Hillcroft Primary School. This is an exciting opportunity to work collaboratively with colleagues across this cluster, to share expertise and experience, ensuring all children in our schools receive an excellent education and reach their potential. It also provides opportunities for career progression across the cluster and gives you the chance to further your professional development.
Join the GLF Schools Community
As a part of GLF Schools, you will join a community of staff dedicated to transforming education. With regular progression discussions, there will be a wealth of opportunities for you to grow your career, whether in one of our 43 academies or in our central team.
- A Multi Academy Trust with over 2,500 colleagues and over 19,000 pupils
- Founded upon the values of Respect, Inclusivity, Integrity and Kindness
- 43 primary and secondary schools across 7 Local Authority areas across the south of England
- We work as a community whilst ensuring each school maintains its own unique identity
- Committed to ensuring all children and young people receive the best possible education
GLF Schools Employment Offer
GLF Schools has a generous employment offer, which allows all our colleagues to Grow, Learn and Flourish:
- Access to our highly competitive Local Government Pension Scheme
- Flexible working options
- Generous holiday allowance
- Work-life and family friendly policies
- Employee wellbeing initiatives
- Career pathways and talent management
- Access to a staff benefits portal
- Community and collaboration working model
Please read the attached Join Our Community candidate pack for further information.
The Details
Start Date: 1st September 2026
Salary: GLF Associate 2 Point 1 - £23,914
Actual Salary: £20,001.59
Hours: 35hrs a week, term time only.
Closing Date: 12th June 2026
Safeguarding Statement: GLF Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Employment is subject to a satisfactory enhanced disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). As a Trust, we are happy to discuss flexible working opportunities. GLF Schools recognises and celebrates the diversity of its schools and their communities. There is a shared commitment across the Trust to develop further a culture of respect, where discrimination is not tolerated, and individuals are treated equitably and fairly and feel a sense of belonging. We strive for an inclusive environment where staff, children and students are comfortable to express their own identity, should they wish, in which diversity and inclusion is of mutual benefit for everyone in our schools. We particularly welcome applicants from under-represented groups including those based on ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.
We reserve the right to withdraw this vacancy at any time ahead of the closing date if there is a good level of response. Therefore, we recommend you submit your application as early as possible. We also reserve the right to interview shortlisted candidates ahead of the closing date. Please be advised that references may be requested on receipt of your application. Please state if you wish this to be delayed until shortlisting/interviews have taken place.
Teaching Assistant employer: Chestnut Park Primary School
At Chestnut Park Primary School, part of the GLF Schools community, we pride ourselves on fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where passionate educators can thrive. Our commitment to professional development, flexible working options, and a supportive work culture ensures that every team member has the opportunity to grow and make a meaningful impact in the lives of our pupils. Join us in transforming education while enjoying generous benefits and a collaborative atmosphere across our cluster of schools in Croydon.
Contact Details:
Chestnut Park Primary School Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Chestnut Park Primary or other schools in the GLF cluster. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a recommendation!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions. Think about how your experience aligns with the role of a Teaching Assistant, especially when it comes to supporting children with SEN.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! During the interview, share specific examples of how you've positively impacted children's learning. This will help us see your commitment to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you’re serious about joining our community at GLF Schools.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for teaching shine through! We want to see how dedicated you are to making a difference in children's lives. Share specific examples of your experiences that highlight your passion for education.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to fit the Teaching Assistant role at Chestnut Park Primary. Use keywords from the job description and demonstrate how your skills align with what we're looking for. This shows us you’ve done your homework!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid fluff and focus on your relevant experience and skills. A well-structured application makes it easier for us to see why you’d be a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chestnut Park Primary School
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to research Chestnut Park Primary and its values. Understanding their commitment to respect, inclusivity, integrity, and kindness will help you align your answers with what they stand for, showing that you're a great fit for their team.
✨Showcase Your Experience with SEN
Since the role involves working with children with Special Educational Needs (SEN), be prepared to discuss any relevant experience you have. Share specific examples of how you've supported children in the past, highlighting your patience and ability to adapt to different learning styles.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
As a Teaching Assistant, you'll need to work closely with teachers and other staff. During the interview, emphasise your teamwork skills by sharing instances where you've collaborated effectively. This will show that you can contribute positively to the school environment.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's approach to education, professional development opportunities, or how they support their staff. This not only shows your interest but also helps you determine if it's the right fit for you.