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- Tasks: Support a reception class and help children thrive through play and learning.
- Company: Join a brand-new school as part of a collaborative multi-academy trust.
- Benefits: Part-time hours, professional development, and a chance to shape a new educational environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a diverse and inclusive setting.
- Why this job: Be a key player in building a vibrant school community from the ground up.
- Qualifications: Experience in early years and a passion for supporting young children's development.
The predicted salary is between 12000 - 15000 £ per year.
Contract Type: Part time (6.25 hours per week, 38 weeks per year), temporary for maternity cover
Hours of Work: 8:45am-3:30pm Thurs
We have a unique and extremely exciting opportunity to be part of the founding team of a brand-new school. We are looking to appoint a teaching assistant, who will play a central role supporting the growth and development of the school. Our school opened in September 2025 to a reception cohort and will expand in September to welcome another cohort of pupils. This role will be based in our Reception class. As part of the Unity Schools Partnership multi-academy trust, the school will be part of a collaborative, forward thinking group of 40 schools. Silfield Oak Primary Academy opened with 30 pupils in the first year and will grow to 60 pupils in the second year. Eventually, the school will have the capacity for 420 pupils.
The role will include:
- Supporting a reception class with high quality play
- Supporting children with learning and development
- Attending training and implementing this into practice
- Supporting children with SEND to access the curriculum
- Working in a strong team with children at the heart of everything
The ideal candidate would have:
- Experience of working in early years
- A strong understanding of continuous provision and high-quality interventions with children
- A strong understanding of the EYFS and development of young children
- A record of professional development linked to the role
- Ability to build strong and positive relationships with the school community
External Closing Date: 09:00am, 13th May 2026
Please be advised that this advert will be closing on 11th May 2026 for internal applicants.
Interviews: 19th May 2026
Please note: We may interview as applications are received and may appoint before the closing date. Applications must be submitted online via our careers website before the deadline, so we encourage early applications and advise checking the job details on our site. In line with safer recruitment, we cannot accept CVs. Incomplete application forms may result in candidates not being shortlisted.
Unity Schools Partnership is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils. All successful candidates will be subject to rigorous pre‑employment checks, including an enhanced DBS. We are also committed to equality, diversity and fair recruitment practices, and we oppose all forms of unlawful discrimination. We value inclusive working practices and diverse teams. If you wish to work part‑time or as a job‑share, we will accommodate this wherever possible. We particularly welcome applications from under‑represented groups.
Teaching Assistant- Maternity cover in Norfolk employer: Unity Schools Partnership
Contact Detail:
Unity Schools Partnership Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant- Maternity cover in Norfolk
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values! Research Silfield Oak Primary Academy and the Unity Schools Partnership. Understanding their mission will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees or others in the education sector. They can provide insights about the role and the school culture, plus it might just give you an edge when it comes to recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how you can support children with SEND and implement high-quality interventions. Be ready to share specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your skills and understanding of early years education.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application is seen. Plus, make sure to submit it early to avoid any last-minute hiccups. We’re rooting for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant- Maternity cover in Norfolk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start your application, make sure to read through the job description thoroughly. It’ll give you a clear idea of what we’re looking for in a teaching assistant and help you tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience.
Showcase Your Experience: When filling out the application form, don’t hold back on sharing your experience with early years education. We want to see how your background aligns with supporting children’s learning and development, especially in a reception class setting.
Be Yourself: Let your personality shine through in your application! We’re looking for someone who can build strong relationships within our school community, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are and why you’re passionate about working with young children.
Apply Early Through Our Website: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application! We encourage you to apply as soon as possible through our careers website. This way, you’ll have the best chance of being considered, and you can avoid any last-minute hiccups.
How to prepare for a job interview at Unity Schools Partnership
✨Know Your EYFS Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Be ready to discuss how you can implement high-quality interventions and continuous provision in the classroom. This will show that you're not just familiar with the curriculum, but that you can actively contribute to the children's learning and development.
✨Showcase Your Experience with SEND
Since the role involves supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), be prepared to share specific examples from your past experiences. Talk about strategies you've used to help these children access the curriculum and how you've built positive relationships with them and their families.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
This position is all about collaboration, so highlight your ability to work well within a team. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with colleagues in previous roles, especially in early years settings. Emphasise your commitment to putting children at the heart of everything you do.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's vision, the team you'll be working with, and how they support professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.