At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teachers and help children thrive in a caring school environment.
- Company: Join Merryfields School, a diverse and welcoming community.
- Benefits: Training opportunities, free parking, health support, and retail discounts.
- Other info: Potential for career progression within a supportive team.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm for working with children; experience preferred but not required.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for enthusiastic and committed Ancillary Assistants to join our diverse and welcoming school team in September 2026. Merryfields School is a 113-place Generic Special School for children aged 4-11 years in Wolstanton, Newcastle‑under‑Lyme; we are part of Manor Hall Academy Trust.
We provide a safe, stimulating and caring environment in which we give children the best possible start to their education. Staff work hard to maintain a friendly, inclusive and professional atmosphere where nurturing our children’s love of learning is at the heart of everything we do.
The role:
We are seeking to appoint 5 Ancillary Assistants to join us from September 2026. The role is term time only for a fixed term period, due to pupil funding, ending in July 2027, with potential for the role to become permanent. You will work 32.5hrs per week: 08:30‑15:45 Monday & Tuesday, 08:45‑16:30 Wednesday, and 08:45‑15:45 Thursday and Friday. The annual salary is paid over 12 months.
As an Ancillary Assistant you will support the Class Teacher in preparing the classroom for lessons, prepare, and maintain general equipment and resources; support our children in matters of personal needs and their general health; and assist with children’s learning and individual needs. The role will be directed by the class teacher.
You will be a caring team player who will have enthusiasm, drive and a commitment to our children. You will also have excellent communication skills and the ability to relate well to both children and adults. Experience of working with children in a school, nursery, or care setting is preferred, but not required as full training will be provided.
We are passionate about helping our team grow, offering ongoing CPD through training, coaching and development opportunities to build skills and confidence. Those staff who are employed on a permanent basis have an opportunity for career progression both within the school and the wider Trust.
Benefits of working for us include:
- Training and development opportunities
- Free on-site parking
- Free tea and coffee making facilities
- Cycle to work and Tech schemes
- Health and wellbeing support
- Retail discounts including supermarkets, high street shops and restaurants and days out
Merryfields school is a multi-cultural and diverse school and actively encourages applications from all candidates. Merryfields School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. A copy of the Safeguarding Policy is available on the school website.
This position is subject to Safer Recruitment checks including an Enhanced DBS check, which will require you to disclose details of all unspent and unfiltered spent reprimands, formal warnings, cautions and convictions in your application form. By engaging in this recruitment process, shortlisted candidates consent to an online search in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education Guidance 2025. In addition, references for shortlisted candidates will be requested prior to interview.
Ancillary Assistant - Merryfields School employer: Stoke-on-Trent
Merryfields School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and inclusive environment for both staff and students. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from ongoing training and career progression opportunities within the Manor Hall Academy Trust. Located in the welcoming community of Wolstanton, Newcastle-under-Lyme, the school provides a supportive work culture, free on-site parking, and various health and wellbeing initiatives, making it an ideal place for those passionate about education and child development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ancillary Assistant - Merryfields School
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Merryfields School and its values. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or at local events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how your skills align with the role. Be ready to share examples of how you've supported children in previous roles, even if it’s from a different setting.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Ancillary Assistant - Merryfields School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm:When writing your application, let your passion for working with children shine through! We want to see your commitment to creating a nurturing environment, so share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive you.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific role of Ancillary Assistant at Merryfields School. Highlight your skills and experiences that align with supporting teachers and helping children with their personal needs.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts well, so we can easily see how you fit into our team and what you can bring to the table.
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 this exciting opportunity at Merryfields School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Stoke-on-Trent
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to research Merryfields School and its values. Understanding their commitment to creating a safe and nurturing environment for children will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
As an Ancillary Assistant, enthusiasm is key! Be sure to express your passion for working with children and your commitment to supporting their learning and personal needs. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your caring nature.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations with children. Think about examples from your past experiences or hypothetical scenarios where you can demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to relate to both children and adults.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training and development opportunities available, or how the school supports its staff in maintaining a positive atmosphere. This shows your interest in growing with the team.
