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.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant in Sunderland
✨Dive into Digital Learning Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant in Sunderland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at Thornhill Academy, make sure to sprinkle your application with examples of your enthusiasm for teaching and learning technologies. Share specific experiences where you've used, designed, or implemented digital learning solutions, as this shows us that you truly get the field.
Highlight Relevant Education and Certification:In the digital learning space, having a strong educational background can set you apart. Don't shy away from showcasing your degrees, certifications, or relevant courses related to e-learning, instructional design, or educational technology. We love seeing candidates who have actively invested in their learning journey!
Tailor Your CV to the Role:Your CV is your first impression, so let's make it count! Focus on your skills directly related to digital learning, such as course development, learning management systems, and data analysis. Be sure to show measurable results from your past roles to demonstrate your impact and effectiveness.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your qualifications, but your vision for the future of digital education. Discuss how your experiences align with the mission of Thornhill Academy and highlight any innovative ideas you might have for enhancing learning experiences. This is your chance to connect with us on a deeper level!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thornhill Academy
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that Thornhill Academy might use. Understanding these will give you an edge and show you’re ready to jump in from day one!
✨Showcase Your Creativity in Lesson Design
Prepare a portfolio of your past projects if you have them, or create sample lesson plans or digital content demos. Being able to discuss your creative approach to engaging students can really set you apart in a full-time role at Thornhill Academy.
✨Brush Up on Educational Trends
Stay in the loop with the latest trends in digital education, like gamification or personalised learning experiences. This will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview and demonstrate your passion for the field.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Expect to be asked about your experience working collaboratively with educators or other stakeholders. Consider discussing how you've contributed to a team effort in creating engaging educational content or improving student outcomes.
