Owls teaching assistant in Leeds

• Permanent, part-time, term-time only + 15 days

• GSAL point 16, £27,074 full time equivalent, £18,363.28 per annum based on 30 hours per week, term-time only plus 15 additional days

The role

At The Grammar School at Leeds, we are looking for a friendly, enthusiastic and caring Owls Teaching Assistant to join our team from January 2027, supporting children aged 3–11 in our wraparound care provision. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys working with children and creating a positive, engaging environment where they can learn, play and thrive. You will help deliver a variety of stimulating indoor and outdoor activities, encourage children’s participation, support homework where appropriate and ensure that all children feel safe, happy and included throughout their time at GSAL Owls.

The successful candidate will have experience of working with children aged 3–11, an understanding of their needs and a commitment to promoting their welfare and development. You will be approachable, adaptable and able to work both independently and as part of a team, building positive relationships with children, colleagues and parents. Responsibilities will include supervising children, supporting positive behaviour, maintaining a safe and clean environment, assisting with personal care when required and providing first aid to children who are ill or injured. You will also be committed to safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion, helping every child feel valued and supported. GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade 4/C or above in English and Maths are essential; a Level 3 Early Years qualification is desirable, and you should hold paediatric first aid and food hygiene training or be willing to undertake the relevant training.

About GSAL

The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) is a thriving, academically selective independent school that is socially inclusive and proudly multicultural. We are committed to helping every pupil realise their potential and develop into confident, curious and well-rounded young people.

Awarded North Independent School of the Year 2024 and Independent School of the Decade in 2021, GSAL offers a friendly, supportive environment with high expectations and a strong focus on both academic excellence and wellbeing. GSAL has also recently been named in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026 in the Big Organisation category.

Located on a purpose-built 140-acre campus at Alwoodley Gates in north Leeds, GSAL educates around 2,100 pupils aged 2–18.

The school operates a diamond model of teaching, with co-education to age 11, single-sex teaching in Years 7–11, and mixed sixth form classes, alongside a rich co-curricular programme that extends learning beyond the classroom. The maximum class size for year 7 and 8 is 24, smaller for practical subjects and decreases at KS4 and 5.

GSAL’s success is driven by committed, professional colleagues who are passionate about excellence in the classroom and contributing to the wider life of the school. In return, we offer a high degree of professional autonomy, excellent resources and a supportive environment, alongside a strong benefits package and opportunities for career development.

Benefits

We value our colleagues and offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Enhanced school holidays (approximately 16 weeks)

• Significant discount on school fees (for contracts of 12 months+)

• Small class sizes with Y7 average being 24 and is even smaller as pupils move through the school

• Subsidised childcare during INSET days (ages 3–11)

• Defined Contribution pension scheme through Aviva, with up to 5% employee contributions, and 10% employer contributions

• Training and CPD, including 5+ INSET days

• Three-course colleague lunches for £2.40, plus free tea, coffee and hot chocolate

• 24/7 online GP access for you and your family via Health Hero

• Employee Assistance Programme through Perkbox, including counselling, legal and financial advice

• Discounts through Perkbox, teacher discounts and Extras

• Scenic lunchtime walking routes across the 140-acre site

• Onsite gym and swimming pool, plus fitness classes (Pilates, meditation, kettlebells, spinning and bootcamps)

• Cycle to work salary sacrifice scheme

• Free onsite parking

• Access to the school’s extensive library facilities

• Generous leave of absence scheme

• Opportunities to be involved in extracurricular activities, wellbeing initiatives and community events

How to apply

Please complete the online application form available on our website.

Further information about the role and responsibilities can be found in the recruitment pack attached to the website advert. Due to the volume of interest, we are unable to offer tours prior to shortlisting; however, a virtual tour is available on our jobs page, and a full tour is provided during the interview process.

For any queries, please contact vacancies@gsal.org.uk.

Closing date: 08:00 Tuesday 3 November
Interview date: Wednesday 11 November

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