General Teaching Assistant - Primary School

An Ofsted-rated 'Outstanding' school, Lift Percy Shurmer offers an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic and committed Teaching Assistant to join our dedicated and inclusive team on a permanent basis. This is a fantastic opportunity for somebody looking to begin or further develop their career in education within a highly supportive and ambitious school community.

Your New School

Lift Percy Shurmer is a large two-form entry primary academy located in the heart of Balsall Heath, serving approximately 457 pupils aged 3 to 11, including children within our highly regarded Deaf Learning Base (DLB). At Percy Shurmer, we are dedicated to providing an excellent education for every child, in every classroom, every day. We are proud to be an inclusive, ambitious and outward-looking school where children are encouraged to develop confidence, resilience and high aspirations for their future. Led by our dedicated Principal, Miss Duffy, the school has built a strong culture of belonging where pupils, families and staff are valued and supported. In 2023, Ofsted graded the school Outstanding, recognising the high quality of education and the overwhelmingly positive views of parents and the wider community. We are committed to providing enriching opportunities for all pupils through trips, residentials, outdoor learning, arts experiences and a broad, inclusive curriculum. Our Deaf Learning Base is recognised for its exceptional provision and commitment to inclusion, communication and opportunity for Deaf learners.

Your New Role

As a Teaching Assistant, you will work in partnership with teachers to improve the learning and attainment of pupils while promoting independence, confidence and social inclusion. The role provides support to pupils so they can access the curriculum, participate fully in learning and experience success both academically and personally. This role is vital in helping our children thrive and achieve their full potential.

• Is passionate about supporting children's learning and development
• Can build positive and supportive relationships with pupils
• Is patient, calm and empathetic
• Works collaboratively with colleagues and families
• Can support pupils with a range of learning needs, including SEND and EAL
• Is enthusiastic, reflective and eager to develop professionally

Experience of working with Deaf learners, British Sign Language (BSL), or within a Deaf Learning Base would be highly beneficial. However, this is not essential, and full training and support will be provided for the right candidate. A genuine passion for inclusive education and supporting Deaf learners would be highly valued.

Lift Percy Shurmer is part of Lift Schools, one of the largest multi-academy trusts in the country, giving you access to excellent training, development and progression opportunities. We provide hands-on support and CPD to help your career in education flourish. For ambitious candidates, Lift Schools offers progression opportunities through its Level 3 and Level 5 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship programmes, as well as Initial Teacher Training pathways.

What You'll Need to Succeed

You will ideally hold a Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (or equivalent), or be willing to work towards this qualification during employment. We are looking for someone who:

• Has GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above (or equivalent)
• Has an understanding of child development and learning needs
• Demonstrates professionalism, resilience and flexibility
• Has strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Can engage and motivate pupils to learn
• Has a commitment to continuous professional development
• Experience of working in a school or with young people is desirable but not essential.

Who is Lift Schools?

We're a diverse and inclusive network of schools with one clear mission; to provide an excellent education to every child - And we do this across each of our 59 schools. Comprehensive training: Access a wide range of developmental training to boost your career. From your pension plan to healthcare and financial support, we've got you covered. Enjoy discounted gym memberships and travel deals.

Ready to apply? Lift Schools are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, and we expect all our people and volunteers to share this commitment. We adopt a fair and consistent recruitment process which is inline with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check. Lift Schools embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. Job share, part-time and flexible working opportunities will be considered. We are a Disability Confident Employer and there is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.