At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children in class and deliver engaging interventions to foster independent learning.
- Company: Portswood Primary School, part of HISP Multi Academy Trust, dedicated to educational excellence.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in a supportive environment with potential career progression.
- Other info: Flexible hours, part-time role covering maternity leave, with a commitment to inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your teaching skills.
- Qualifications: Experience or interest in working with children, especially those with SEND, is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 12000 - 18000 £ per year.
Temporary, Part Time
Portswood Primary School is a two-form entry school and nursery. It is a great school where children are at the centre of everything that we do. We believe that all members of the school community should aim high and dream big. We are passionate about developing life learners who are excited and engaged by school and want to become independent learners. We have been designated, by the DfE, with two Teaching School Hubs covering Portsmouth, Southampton, the Isle of Wight and parts of Hampshire. The core purpose behind the Teaching School Hubs is to become centres of excellence for teaching and leadership training and development.
About the role:
We would like to appoint a dedicated and patient Teaching Assistant to join our hard-working team to work with children, supporting in class and with interventions. With a keen interest in nurturing independent learners, the successful candidate will enable our children to access all elements of the curriculum, through the delivery of high-quality interventions under the direction of a class teacher and through actively engaging students in their learning so that they achieve positive outcomes. Experience or an interest in working with children with SEND would be an advantage. This position would potentially suit candidates with experience as a Teaching Assistant, or a person who is looking to gain experience working in a school prior to pursuing a teaching career. The ability to establish high expectations of work and behaviour is vital, as is the ability to provide objective and accurate feedback to the Class Teacher.
We are seeking a professional individual who is:
- reliable and enthusiastic
- creative, committed and passionate
- dedicated to making a real difference to the lives of children
- able to work both as part of a team and independently with a flexible and proactive approach
About HISP Trust:
HISP Multi Academy Trust believes in building excellent educational environments that inspire and unlock potential in all our school communities. As a Trust, we are ambitious and have a broad range of outward facing accreditations that support our schools and those within our local area. We are part of the Education Endowment Foundation Network with our HISP Research School. Evidence informed practice underpins our ethos, professional development and school improvement.
Application process:
To apply, please review our full job description and person specification, then complete our application form which can be found below. Completed application forms can be emailed to info@portswoodpri.org.uk or submitted by post to The Headteacher, Portswood Primary School, Somerset Road, Southampton SO17 3AA. Please note that CVs will not be accepted. No agency applications either please.
Interview date: Thursday 27 November 2025
Start date: 5 January 2026
*please note, this role is to cover maternity leave and we anticipate it to end in December 2026.
The HISP Multi Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks. We are also committed to providing equality of opportunity at all stages of the recruitment and selection process and ensuring that candidates are treated fairly and lawfully throughout the process.
We are committed to making our recruitment process accessible and inclusive. If you require any adjustments, whether for neurodivergence, disability, or other access needs, please let us know. We will do our best to ensure a supportive and equitable experience.
Teaching Assistant (Maternity Cover) in Southampton employer: HISP Multi Academy Trust
Portswood Primary School, part of the HISP Multi Academy Trust, is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inspiring educational environment. With a strong focus on professional development and a commitment to nurturing independent learners, we offer our staff opportunities for growth and collaboration within a passionate team. Located in Southampton, our school community thrives on high expectations and a shared vision of making a meaningful impact on children's lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant (Maternity Cover) in Southampton
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We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant (Maternity Cover) in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at HISP Multi Academy Trust, make sure to sprinkle your application with examples of your enthusiasm for teaching and learning technologies. Share specific experiences where you've used, designed, or implemented digital learning solutions, as this shows us that you truly get the field.
Highlight Relevant Education and Certification:In the digital learning space, having a strong educational background can set you apart. Don't shy away from showcasing your degrees, certifications, or relevant courses related to e-learning, instructional design, or educational technology. We love seeing candidates who have actively invested in their learning journey!
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How to prepare for a job interview at HISP Multi Academy Trust
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that HISP Multi Academy Trust might use. Understanding these will give you an edge and show you’re ready to jump in from day one!
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Prepare a portfolio of your past projects if you have them, or create sample lesson plans or digital content demos. Being able to discuss your creative approach to engaging students can really set you apart in a full-time role at HISP Multi Academy Trust.
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Stay in the loop with the latest trends in digital education, like gamification or personalised learning experiences. This will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview and demonstrate your passion for the field.
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Expect to be asked about your experience working collaboratively with educators or other stakeholders. Consider discussing how you've contributed to a team effort in creating engaging educational content or improving student outcomes.
