At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students' learning and wellbeing while assisting teachers in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Thornhill Academy, a diverse and inclusive school community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to shape young lives.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to safeguarding and equality.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and be part of an exciting school journey.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 in Teaching Assistance and experience with secondary-age children.
The predicted salary is between 21026 - 21701 £ per year.
Location: Thornhill Academy
Salary: Grade 4 (NJC Scale Points 6 to 8) £21,025.82 - £21,701.36
Contract: Permanent – 32.5 hours per week, Term Time plus 5 days
Start Date: September 2026
About the Role
As a Teaching Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting students’ learning, wellbeing, and development. Working under the guidance of the class teacher, you will help provide engaging activities, assist with planning and assessment, and ensure pupils can access learning effectively – both in and beyond the classroom.
Key Responsibilities
- Support for Pupils
- Provide tailored support to pupils, including those with SEND.
- Promote independence, positive behaviour and engagement.
- Assist with Education and Behaviour Plans and personal care needs.
- Establish positive relationships, promoting inclusion and acceptance.
- Give feedback to pupils to support their progress.
- Support for Teachers
- Assist in preparing resources and maintaining a purposeful learning environment.
- Support with planning and delivering structured learning activities.
- Monitor, record and report pupils’ progress.
- Carry out routine marking and behaviour support.
- Help with display work and supervision.
- Support for the Curriculum
- Deliver agreed interventions and learning programmes (e.g. literacy, numeracy).
- Support the use of ICT and develop pupil independence.
- Prepare and maintain equipment and resources.
- General Responsibilities
- Ensure safeguarding, health & safety, confidentiality and data protection procedures are followed.
- Attend relevant meetings and training.
- Contribute to the wider life and ethos of the school.
Person Specification
Essential
- NVQ Level 3 in Teaching Assistance (or equivalent experience).
- Good numeracy and literacy skills (NVQ Level 2 or equivalent).
- Experience working with children of secondary age.
- Understanding of child development and learning processes.
- Ability to support pupils with autism (1:1 and small group).
- Knowledge of the national curriculum and learning programmes.
- Ability to build positive relationships with pupils, staff and parents.
- Strong team player with good communication skills.
- Commitment to safeguarding and equality.
Desirable
- Experience working with pupils with additional needs.
- Full understanding of support services and multi‑agency working.
- NVQ Level 2 in a curriculum area (if applicable).
- Understanding of relevant legislation and policies.
Benefits
- A supportive school and trust with strong shared values.
- Excellent professional development opportunities.
- A diverse and vibrant school community.
- Opportunities to shape the lives of young people every day.
- A school on an exciting improvement and redevelopment journey.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Consilium Academies is a committed safeguarding and inclusive employer. All staff and volunteers share this commitment. This position is subject to an Enhanced DBS Check and, where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check. The Trust is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Under Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016, the Public Sector fluency duty requires state funded schools to ensure candidates for customer facing roles have the required standard of spoken English.
Teaching Assistant in Sunderland employer: Thornhill Academy
At Thornhill Academy, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters a supportive and inclusive work environment. Our commitment to professional development ensures that as a Teaching Assistant, you will have ample opportunities to grow and make a meaningful impact on the lives of our students. Join us in a vibrant school community dedicated to improvement and innovation, where your contributions are valued and celebrated.
