Apprentice Teaching Assistant in Shirley

About the Role

Are you enthusiastic about making a difference in children's lives and looking to start a rewarding career in education? Oasis Academy Shirley Park is seeking two motivated and compassionate Teaching Assistant Apprentices to join our warm, inclusive, and supportive team. This is an exciting opportunity to gain valuable, hands-on experience in a vibrant primary school environment while studying towards a Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification. As an apprentice, you'll work closely with experienced teachers and staff to support pupils, particularly those with special educational needs (SEN). You'll help create a positive, nurturing learning atmosphere where all children can thrive. You'll also benefit from on-the-job training, professional mentoring, and dedicated support to help you grow into a confident, skilled education professional.

Key Responsibilities

• Support teaching and learning activities across classes, groups, or individual pupils with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities
• Help raise attainment and encourage pupil independence
• Support children's emotional, social, and physical well-being
• Promote inclusion and equal opportunities within the classroom
• Assist with planning and delivering engaging learning activities
• Work under the guidance of class teachers, SEN coordinators, and your line manager
• Complete training and coursework as part of your apprenticeship journey

Expectations of the Role

• Adhere to the academy's vision, ethos, and safeguarding procedures
• Maintain a professional, respectful, and collaborative approach to working with colleagues
• Take an active role in the pastoral care of pupils, ensuring their wellbeing and safety are prioritised
• Be reflective and proactive in your own development and learning
• Contribute positively to school life and continuous improvement

Desired Skills

• A genuine passion for working with children
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• A reliable, punctual, and committed attitude
• Good organisation and attention to detail
• Confidence in your ability and a willingness to learn
• Previous experience working with children (desirable but not essential)

Personal Qualities

• Kind, caring, and compassionate nature
• Proactive and able to use your initiative
• Responsible, punctual, and dependable
• Positive and enthusiastic approach to work

Desired Qualifications

• 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grades A*-C / 9-4, including English and Maths

Future Prospects

Potential for full-time employment within the school or wider Oasis Academy Trust. Excellent foundation for further study or progression to higher-level roles in education.

Things to Consider

This role requires an enhanced DBS check due to the nature of working with children. Apprentices are paid for both their work hours and any training associated with the apprenticeship.

About Oasis Academy Shirley Park

Location: Stroud Green Campus, 47-49 Stroud Green Way, Croydon, CR0 7BE. Oasis Academy Shirley Park is a co-educational, inclusive primary school committed to transforming lives through education. Located just a short train ride from central London, our academy sits at the heart of a vibrant community. We are proud of our journey so far and even prouder of our pupils and staff, who bring our values to life every day. Our mission is to nurture young minds, fostering a lifelong love of learning in a supportive and inspiring environment.

Training Provider

Let Me Play Ltd. You'll be working towards the Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Standard (Level 3). The programme includes:

• Understanding child and adolescent development
• Supporting literacy, numeracy, and ICT
• Meeting children's individual needs
• Safeguarding policies and procedures
• Knowledge of legislation around confidentiality and data protection

You will begin with an initial training programme to prepare for your employment, followed by ongoing support from Let Me Play's team throughout your apprenticeship.