At a Glance
- Tasks: Support classroom teaching and help pupils thrive while gaining hands-on experience.
- Company: Join Penbridge Schools, a welcoming community focused on nurturing young learners.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, training opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while developing your skills and career.
- Qualifications: GCSE or Functional Skills in Maths and English required; passion for working with children essential.
- Other info: Flexible roles available, including participation in the Walking Bus between school sites.
About The Role
Are you passionate about education and eager to make a lasting difference in the lives of young learners?
We are seeking to appoint a committed and enthusiastic Apprentice Teaching Assistant to join our team and support pupils across Penbridge Schools .
This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is motivated, caring and ready to build a rewarding career in education. As an Apprentice Teaching Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting classroom teaching and helping pupils thrive, all while gaining hands-on experience working towards a Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship .
You will be supported every step of the way with high quality training and mentorship, equipping you with the skills to become a valued and confident member of our team.
What you will need:
- GCSE or Functional Skills (Grade 4/C or Level 2) in Maths and English
- A genuine desire to work with children and make a positive impact on their learning journey
Key Responsibilities:
For a full list of responsibilities please see the attached job description
- Support teaching and learning alongside the Classroom Teacher
- Motivate and encourage pupils to reach their full potential
- Participate in the Walking Bus between school sites on a rota basis
- Communicate effectively with staff, pupils, parents and carers
- Use ICT confidently to support learning and admin tasks
- Excellent organisational and administrative skills
- Understanding of the educational system and current development
Make a difference. Start your journey in education with Penbridge Schools.
About Us
Formally known as Penhale Infant School and Newbridge Junior School, we officially joined together in September 2022 to form Penbridge Infants and Junior School. The infants site comprises of a nursery with 24 places for funded 2-4 year olds and a 2-form entry Infant school with 180 children on the roll including 24 in our Rainbow Fish Inclusion Unit. The Juniors site comprises of a 4-form entry school with 440 children on the roll.
\”Pupils are happy and enjoy attending this welcoming school\” – Ofsted 2022
Find out more about our story at: Ethos & Values, Penbridge School
At Penbridge School, we are a proud member of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust. This enables us to create a unique offer for children: an \”all-through\” educational journey in which they remain with the same family of schools throughout their education.
We are one of five primary schools and one secondary school in Portsmouth to benefit from Thinking Schools\’ award-winning resources, curriculum, and collaboration opportunities.
Thinking Schools Academy Trust
The Thinking Schools Academy Trust is a family of schools across the South West, South, South East and East of England, consisting of early years, primary, secondary and specialist provision.
We believe that every young person in our community deserves to have the best opportunities at life regardless of their individual circumstances.
Learn more about our Vision and Values here
What our Trust will offer you:
- Competitive Pay Scales
- Performance Related Pay : We operate a Professional Growth policy that allows us to reward staff who meet their objectives with additional pay for exceptional performance.
- Pension Scheme Membership: Secure your future with membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Collaborative Support: Benefit from resources, mentoring, and school visits across the Trust.
- Training: Expand your skills and knowledge with opportunities for Trust-funded apprenticeships and training courses.
- Knowledge and Curriculum Sharing: Our regional hub model offers a network of collaboration for staff to share best practice.
- Cycle2Work Scheme: Salary sacrifice scheme to purchase a new bike with National Insurance savings.
- Staff Wellbeing Focus : Access our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, free flu vaccinations, and eye care vouchers.
- TSTARS Staff Recognition : You will be part of our Staff Recognition Programme, with seasonal rewards for all staff.
- Refer a Friend : Spread the word and benefit financially from our Refer a Friend Scheme.
- TSAT Benefits portal : a one-stop shop benefits hub that gives you access to a range of exclusive benefits including employee discounts, dental cover, Cycle to Work Scheme and Discounted Gym Membership.
- Store Discounts: Support staff have access to \’Discount for Teachers\’ scheme that offers a huge range of money saving deals and vouchers.
- Blue Light Card: School staff can now access the Blue Light Card for discounts across a wide range of categories including holidays, cars, days out and much more!
Next steps:
If you are interested in working at our small and friendly school, benefitting from a supportive network of colleagues across our Trust, and are keen to progress your career then please apply today!
Early applications are encouraged and we reserve the right to close the vacancy if a suitable candidate is found.
To arrange an informal telephone conversation or tour of the school please contact Sarah Arthur on (email protected)
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates, if you have any questions regarding this process please email (email protected)
Apprentice Teaching Assistant employer: TSAT
Contact Detail:
TSAT Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the ethos and values of Penbridge Schools. Understanding their commitment to creating a positive learning environment will help you align your passion for education with their mission during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current educational trends and practices, especially those related to primary education. Being knowledgeable about the latest teaching methods and how they can benefit young learners will demonstrate your enthusiasm and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the education sector, particularly those who work within the Thinking Schools Academy Trust. Building connections can provide insights into the role and may even lead to recommendations that strengthen your application.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during your informal conversation or school tour. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gather valuable information about the school's culture and expectations.
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the role of an Apprentice Teaching Assistant. Emphasise any previous work with children, educational qualifications, and your passion for education.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the position and explains why you want to work at Penbridge Schools. Mention specific aspects of their ethos and values that resonate with you.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your GCSE or Functional Skills qualifications in Maths and English. If you have any additional training or certifications related to education or child development, be sure to include those as well.
Showcase Your Soft Skills: In your application, highlight soft skills such as communication, organisation, and empathy. These are crucial for a role supporting young learners and will demonstrate your suitability for the position.
How to prepare for a job interview at TSAT
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Make sure to express your genuine enthusiasm for working with children and your commitment to making a positive impact on their learning journey. Share any relevant experiences or motivations that led you to apply for this role.
✨Prepare for Common Questions
Anticipate questions related to supporting teaching and learning, as well as how you would motivate and encourage pupils. Think about specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to engage with children effectively.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the School's Ethos
Research Penbridge Schools and the Thinking Schools Academy Trust. Understanding their values and educational approach will help you align your answers with their mission and show that you are a good fit for their team.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be prepared to discuss how you would communicate with staff, pupils, and parents. Use clear and concise language during the interview to showcase your organisational and administrative skills.