At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teachers in delivering high-quality learning to students with diverse needs.
- Company: Join Walton Hall Academy, a unique school focused on holistic education and community impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, health plans, discounts, and professional growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive and dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm and skills in supporting students; experience with special educational needs is a plus.
- Other info: Position subject to vetting; early applications encouraged.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 ÂŁ per year.
* Teaching AssistantsNEWFast Apply# Teaching AssistantsEmployerLocation: Stafford, StaffordshireContract Type: PermanentHours: Full TimeSalary: Grade 5 SCP 16-20 £25,989-£27,254 FTEPosted: 6th February 2026Start Date: As Soon As PossibleExpires: 23rd February 2026 09:00 AMContract Type: PermanentStart Date: As Soon As PossibleJob ID: 1533464Start Date: As Soon As Possible* Contract Type :Permanent* Job ID: 1533464* Share :Walton Hall Academy are currently recruiting for 2 enthusiastic, and skilled Teaching Assistants to join their team!This is an exciting opportunity to join and become a part of our outstanding School. As a Teaching Assistant you will play a vital role in supporting the Teacher in the classroom to help deliver high quality learning to our pupils.Walton Hall is situated in a rural setting just outside of Eccleshall in Staffordshire. It is a unique academy with extensive grounds and outstanding vocational resources that make the “Walton Hall Experience” of education a very special one. We have a dynamic community of 191 learners with a dedicated, creative and forward looking staff team and Academy Council. Walton Hall caters for students with a wide range of additional learning needs. Our curriculum is focused on development of the whole person and preparing them for adult life. We aim to develop confidence, competence and independence but above all, we value good communication, respect for all and opportunities to offer a positive contribution to their local community. We have high aspirations for all of our young people and aim for them to reach their full potential.**A full clean driving licence is essential preferably with a D1 classification on the licence as there may be times when they will need to drive minibuses.**Walton Hall is situated in a rural setting just outside of Eccleshall in Staffordshire. It is a unique academy with extensive grounds and outstanding vocational resources that make the “Walton Hall Experience” of education a very special one. We have a dynamic community of 224 learners with a dedicated, creative and forward looking staff team.Walton Hall caters for students with a wide range of additional learning needs. Our curriculum is focused on the development of the whole child and preparing them for adult life. We aim to provide every individual student with the best possible educational experience through an innovative, creative and progressive curriculum that enables them to become the best they can possibly be. At Walton Hall we NURTURE all our students enabling them to GROW holistically so that they can FLOURISH into adulthood. We have high aspirations for all of our young people and aim for them to reach their full potential.**Join Shaw Education Trust – Support, Teach, Lead… Make the Remarkable Happen.**At Shaw Education Trust, we believe every role holds the power to transform a life. Whether you\’re supporting behind the scenes, inspiring in the classroom, or leading with vision, you’ll be part of something extraordinary.We are a dynamic and growing family of Primary, Secondary, and Special Schools, proudly serving communities from Birmingham to Bury. Our mission is to unlock opportunity for every young person—whatever their background, ability, or starting point.Our **people are our greatest asset,** and we are deeply committed to their growth. Through high-quality training, apprenticeships, talent acceleration, and research opportunities, we empower our staff to thrive as skilled, confident professionals and we champion wellbeing, value every voice, and create a culture where you feel supported, motivated, and inspired to make a real difference.You will join a collaborative network of schools where shared expertise and professional community fuel success. Every academy in our Trust has an equal voice, and every colleague plays a vital part in shaping tailored learning experiences that raise aspirations and build brighter futures.At the heart of our work is a deep respect for the children and young adults we serve—our “precious cargo.” We are proud to **\”exactly like nothing else”** and bridge the gap between education and the wider world, preparing every student for further education, employment, or training in inclusive environments where **integrity, equality, and opportunity thrive.**If you have the heart, passion, and drive to help shape lives and create futures filled with promise, we would love you to join our incredible team.**Support. Teach. Lead. Belong. Thrive.****Together, let’s make the remarkable happen.****Our Special Schools** are dedicated to supporting children and young people with a broad spectrum of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.From those with profound medical conditions and life-limiting illnesses, to individuals with severe, moderate, or sensory needs, and those experiencing social, emotional, or mental health challenges, our settings are designed to provide the care, understanding, and expertise each young person needs to thrive.Whether you\’re a teacher, teaching assistant, healthcare professional, or part of our facilities, administration, or operations teams, you will find a welcoming, family-like environment where every role is valued.At the heart of each school is a shared commitment to putting children, young people, and their families first.Each pupil receives a personalised education and learns in small groups or classes, supported by dedicated staff who tailor their approach to meet individual needs.Working in our Special Schools is more than a job; it’s an opportunity to be part of a compassionate team that empowers children and young people to live their best life and build a bright future.**The difference you make will be life-changing, not only for them but for their families too.**Shaw Education Trust offer the following employee benefits with your Teaching or Support Staff employment:* An excellent Local Government Pension Scheme (Support Staff) / Teachers Pension (Teaching Staff)* Support Staff only based on working full time, all year – Generous holiday entitlement from your first day of employment (37 days holiday rising to 39 days after 5 years’ service including Bank Holidays)* Access to Medicash Health & Wellbeing Plan: Enjoy health services designed to support your well-being.* Free DiscountForTeachers Scheme for all staff (Support and Teaching), Exclusive discounts to save money with a wide selection of discounts and exclusive offers from hundreds of the biggest brands.* Free Eye Tests* Cycle to work scheme* Access to our Institute of Education and fantastic opportunities to help you grow, contribute and flourish in your role and in the Trust.We know our people are the key to our success and so we’re committed to ensuring the employment experience at **Shaw Education Trust** is a rewarding one.**Colleagues within the Trust benefit from:** Access to a full range of courses both in-house and professionally accredited. These courses include a variety of the National Professional Qualifications and the Early Carer Teacher Programme delivered by Shaw Education Trust as a delivery partner for Ambition Institute.* Experienced leadership and subject-specific support.* Guidance from former HMIs and serving Ofsted Inspectors within the Trust.* Access to the Trust’s Institute of Education and SCITT.* Opportunities to work with different schools within the Trust as a Professional Advocate.* Participating in peer reviews.* Access to a suite of online courses.* Placement projects within our family of schools.Actual Salary: £19,898-£20,866Working hours: 32.50 hours per week, Term Time only (38 weeks + 5 inset days)Interviews: Friday 27th February 2026### Attachments### Safeguarding Statement:Walton Hall Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff #J-18808-Ljbffr
Teaching Assistants employer: The Shaw Education Trust
Contact Detail:
The Shaw Education Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistants
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Walton Hall Academy's ethos and values. Understanding their commitment to supporting students with additional learning needs will help you demonstrate your alignment with their mission during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare examples of how you've supported students in previous roles or experiences. Highlighting specific instances where you've made a positive impact on learners will showcase your skills and dedication as a Teaching Assistant.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the Shaw Education Trust and its various schools. Being knowledgeable about their initiatives and community involvement can help you stand out as a candidate who is genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former staff members if possible. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the school culture and expectations, which you can leverage during your application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistants
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Teaching Assistant at Walton Hall Academy. Tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with their needs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and your commitment to supporting students with special educational needs. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate how you can contribute to the school's mission.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise any previous experience working with children, particularly those with additional learning needs. Include any relevant qualifications or training that would make you a strong candidate for the position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread it for spelling and grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are important qualities for a Teaching Assistant.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Shaw Education Trust
✨Understand the Role
Before the interview, make sure you have a clear understanding of what a Teaching Assistant does, especially in a special educational needs setting. Familiarise yourself with Walton Hall Academy's mission and values, as this will help you align your answers with their expectations.
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for working with children and supporting their learning journey. Share personal experiences or anecdotes that highlight your commitment to education and how you can contribute positively to the classroom environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenging situations. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully supported students with diverse needs, and be ready to discuss these scenarios in detail.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about the school culture, support systems for staff, and professional development opportunities. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you determine if it's the right fit for you.