At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils in learning activities and help develop their communication and social skills.
- Company: Freemantles School, a specialist school for autistic children and young people.
- Benefits: Paid training, employee wellbeing programme, and strong support from experienced leaders.
- Other info: Flexible hours, excellent career preparation, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Good standard of English and Maths; no prior experience needed.
The predicted salary is between 17442 - 17442 £ per year.
Employer Location: Woking, Surrey
Contract Type: Fixed term contract
Hours: Term Time
Contract Length: 12 months
Salary: £17,442 p.a. (FTE £24,330)
Posted: 20th May 2026
Start Date: As Soon As Possible
Expires: 10th June 2026 09:00 AM
Job ID: 1554470
Suitable for: Other Graduates
Freemantles School is a specialist school based in Mayford Green, Woking, supporting autistic children and young people and those with complex social communication needs, aged 4-19.
Our Mayford site includes:
- A Primary School
- A Secondary & FE School
Classes are small, with around 9 pupils on average, allowing staff to build strong relationships and provide meaningful, individualised support.
About the role
As a Classroom Assistant, you will:
- Support pupils with learning activities in the classroom and outdoors
- Help children and young people develop communication, independence and social skills
- Support emotional regulation and wellbeing throughout the school day
- Work closely with teachers and other staff as part of a class team
- Take part in weekly community outings, supporting learning beyond the classroom
This is an active, varied and rewarding role, ideal for those wanting real experience before committing to a long-term career path.
We're looking for people who are:
- Calm, resilient and flexible
- Enthusiastic about supporting children and young people
- Good team players with a positive attitude
- Confident communicating with pupils and adults
You do not need previous experience - we provide paid training and ongoing development. A good standard of English and Maths is required.
What we can offer you
- A structured one-year opportunity to explore a potential career direction
- Excellent preparation for future study or careers in Education, Psychology, Therapy, Social care or SEND services.
- Strong support from experienced school leaders
- Opportunity to develop highly transferable skills including communication, teamwork and resilience
- Employee Wellbeing Programme (including 24/7 GP access), staff wellbeing activities and free parking
- Surrey County Council benefits including Local Government Pension Scheme, paid sickness entitlement, discount schemes (retail and leisure)
Many staff find this experience to be a valuable stepping stone into further training or employment.
Working hours and pay
- Fixed-term contract for one year
- Up to 30 hours per week (part-time may be available, subject to class staffing)
- Primary hours: 9.15am - 3.15pm
- Secondary & FE hours: 8.50am - 2.50pm
- Term time only
- Salary: £17,442 (based on 30 hours per week, term time only)
Salary is paid on a spread-over basis, meaning you receive the same amount each month, including school holidays. Please note: This amount does not yet include the Surrey Support Staff Pay Award currently under negotiation from 1 April 2026.
Application forms only - CVs cannot be accepted.
Freemantles is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to demonstrably share this commitment.
An Enhanced DBS check will be essential. Please note that we will be undertaking online searches on shortlisted candidates, in accordance with Keeping Children Safe in Education.
We will be shortlisting applications using the person specification. Please ensure that you read the job description and person specification before submitting your application. The job description, person specification and application form can be seen below. Please submit your application form online via ETEACH.
Closing dates: 9am on 13 May 2026 and 10 June 2026
We will shortlist applications after each closing date.
Interviews: 19 May 2026 and 18 June 2026.
Classroom Assistant - Gap Year employer: FREEMANTLES SCHOOL
Freemantles School in Woking offers a supportive and enriching environment for Classroom Assistants, providing a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience while making a meaningful impact on the lives of autistic children and young people. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, ongoing training, and development, staff are equipped with transferable skills that prepare them for future careers in education and social care. The school fosters a collaborative work culture, ensuring that every team member feels valued and supported in their professional journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Classroom Assistant - Gap Year
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Freemantles School and understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a Classroom Assistant, you'll need to connect with both pupils and staff. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family to boost your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your enthusiasm! During interviews, share personal stories or experiences that highlight your passion for supporting children and young people. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about the opportunity. Don’t miss out on this chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Classroom Assistant - Gap Year
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing your application, take a good look at the job description. We want to see that you understand what the role of a Classroom Assistant involves and how you can contribute to the team.
Show Your Enthusiasm:Let your passion for supporting children and young people shine through in your application. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in the lives of our pupils!
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out the application form, keep your answers clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward responses that highlight your skills and experiences relevant to the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application via ETEACH as specified. This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at FREEMANTLES SCHOOL
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to research Freemantles School and its commitment to supporting autistic children and those with complex social communication needs. Understanding their values will help you align your answers with what they prioritise in a Classroom Assistant.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
During the interview, express your genuine enthusiasm for working with children and young people. Share any relevant experiences or interests that demonstrate your passion for education and support, even if they are informal or voluntary.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your ability to handle various situations in the classroom. Think about how you would support a child struggling with emotional regulation or how you would encourage communication among pupils. Practising these scenarios can give you confidence.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, be ready to ask insightful questions about the role and the school environment. This shows your interest and helps you determine if it's the right fit for you. Consider asking about training opportunities or how the team collaborates to support students.
