At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people in English and maths, helping them regain confidence through one-to-one sessions.
- Company: A supportive organisation dedicated to empowering young learners.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, make a difference, and develop your teaching skills.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team where every moment counts and growth is encouraged.
- Why this job: Be the reason someone believes in their learning potential and achieves their goals.
- Qualifications: Experience with young people and a passion for education; patience is key!
Support young people to rebuild confidence in English and maths by working alongside them in small, in-person sessions. This is a hands-on role where your encouragement and one-to-one support can make a real difference to how someone experiences learning.
Many of the young people we support haven’t had a straightforward experience with education. Some have missed large parts of school. Some have been told they’re “not academic.” Others are capable but lack confidence. Your support helps change that in real time.
- Help someone understand something they’ve been stuck on for years
- Create moments where learning feels possible again
- Support young people to achieve qualifications that open doors to work and further training
- Contribute to a space where young people feel supported, not judged
Without this role, those one-to-one moments don’t happen in the same way – and those are often the moments that make the difference.
What are we looking for?
We’re looking for someone who is comfortable working directly with young people and understands that learning isn’t the same for everyone.
Experience
- Experience as a teaching assistant, tutor, or in a classroom setting
- Experience supporting individuals or groups with different learning needs, including SEND
- Confidence working one-to-one and adapting your approach depending on the person
More importantly, you
- Are patient and steady, even when someone is disengaged or frustrated
- Can build rapport without forcing it
- Are practical and happy to help with the small things that keep a session running
- Understand that progress can be slow, but still meaningful
If you don’t meet every point exactly but feel aligned with the role, we’d still like to hear from you.
What will you be doing?
You’ll be part of our Functional Skills sessions, supporting young people working towards their English and maths qualifications. This isn’t a back-of-the-room role. You’ll be actively involved – sitting alongside young people, helping them make sense of the work, building their confidence, and keeping them engaged when things don’t click straight away.
Alongside the tutor, you’ll:
- Provide one-to-one support during sessions, helping young people work through tasks at their own pace
- Support small groups where needed, especially when learners are at different levels
- Help set up sessions – preparing resources, laying out materials, and making the space feel ready
- Assist with light admin like photocopying, organising worksheets, and keeping materials in order
- Notice when someone is struggling and step in with patience and encouragement
Some days will feel smooth. Other days might require a bit more energy and adaptability. Either way, your presence helps keep the session grounded and supportive.
Teaching Assistant for Functional Skills - Volunteer employer: The Skills Spot
Contact Detail:
The Skills Spot Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant for Functional Skills - Volunteer
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research their values and mission so you can show how your passion aligns with what they do. This will help you stand out when you chat with them.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills. Since this role is all about supporting young people, being able to express yourself clearly and empathetically is key. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to share your experiences! Think of specific examples where you've helped someone learn or overcome challenges. This will show that you understand the importance of one-to-one support and can make a real difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to 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 and making an impact.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant for Functional Skills - Volunteer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for supporting young people in your application. Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you to help others rebuild their confidence in English and maths.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight relevant experience, especially if you've worked with individuals who have different learning needs. We want to know how your background aligns with the role!
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to show your personality! We’re looking for someone who can build rapport naturally, so let your genuine self shine through in your written application.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Skills Spot
✨Know Your Impact
Before the interview, think about how your support can truly change a young person's learning experience. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've helped others build confidence in subjects like English and maths.
✨Show Your Patience
During the interview, demonstrate your understanding of different learning paces. Share stories that highlight your patience and ability to adapt your approach when someone is struggling or disengaged.
✨Build Rapport Naturally
Think about how you connect with young people. In the interview, discuss your strategies for building rapport without forcing it. This could include sharing experiences where you’ve created a comfortable learning environment.
✨Be Ready for Real Scenarios
Prepare for situational questions that might come up during the interview. Think about how you would handle a disengaged learner or a session that isn’t going smoothly. Show that you can stay steady and supportive, no matter the challenge.