At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teachers and help children thrive in a caring school environment.
- Company: Join Merryfields School, a diverse and inclusive community dedicated to education.
- Benefits: Enjoy training opportunities, free parking, health support, and retail discounts.
- Other info: Potential for career growth within a supportive team.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring enthusiasm and a passion for helping others.
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 in Stoke-on-Trent employer: Stoke-on-Trent
Merryfields School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and inclusive environment where staff are valued and supported in their professional growth. With a strong commitment to ongoing training and development, employees can enhance their skills while enjoying benefits such as free on-site parking, health and wellbeing support, and retail discounts. Located in the welcoming community of Wolstanton, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Merryfields School provides a meaningful opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of children aged 4-11 years.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ancillary Assistant - Merryfields School in Stoke-on-Trent
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Merryfields School and its values. When you walk in for your interview, show that you understand their mission and how you can contribute to their nurturing environment.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to working with children and supporting their needs. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. Share any relevant experiences, even if they’re informal, to demonstrate your commitment to helping kids learn and grow.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Merryfields School. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Ancillary Assistant - Merryfields School in Stoke-on-Trent
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 that you’re excited about the role and ready to contribute to our friendly and inclusive environment.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight relevant experiences, even if they’re not directly in a school setting. We value any experience that shows your ability to support children and work as part of a team.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your skills and experiences are easy to read and understand. Avoid jargon and keep it simple!
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 providing a safe and nurturing environment for children will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for. Show that you share their passion for education and child development.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations with children. Think about examples from any previous experience you have, even if it’s not directly in a school setting. Be ready to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and your ability to support children's individual needs.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Merryfields School is looking for enthusiastic team players. During the interview, let your passion for working with children shine through. Share stories that highlight your commitment to fostering a love of learning and your drive to make a positive impact on students’ lives.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! This shows your interest in the role and the school. You might ask about the training opportunities available or how the school supports staff development. It’s a great way to demonstrate that you’re serious about being part of their team.
