Teaching Assistant Level 2 (Maternity Cover) in Walsall

About this Role

Oakwood School is a specialist provision for children and young people aged 3‑15 years with complex educational needs.

The school is commissioned for 267 places (September 2025) and provides a safe, stimulating, and nurturing learning environment that supports bespoke learning pathways.

• Key Duties and Responsibilities
• Work under the instruction and guidance of teaching and senior staff to support pupils’ learning, care and personal development programmes.
• Supervise and provide particular support for pupils, including those with special educational needs, ensuring their safety and access to learning activities.
• Assist with the development and implementation of Individual Education Plans, Behaviour Plans and Personal Care programmes.
• Establish positive and constructive relationships with pupils, interacting with them according to their individual needs.
• Promote the inclusion and acceptance of all pupils, encouraging independence, self‑esteem and positive interaction with others.
• Provide feedback to pupils in relation to progress and achievement under the guidance of the teacher.
• Attend to pupils’ personal needs, including social, health, physical, hygiene, first aid and welfare matters as required.
• Support the teacher in creating and maintaining a purposeful, orderly and supportive learning environment.
• Assist with planning learning activities and use agreed strategies to support pupils in achieving learning goals.
• Monitor pupils’ responses to learning activities and accurately record achievement and progress as directed.
• Provide regular feedback to teachers on pupils’ achievement, progress and any issues arising.
• Promote positive pupil behaviour, responding promptly to conflict and incidents in line with school policy.
• Establish constructive relationships with parents and carers.
• Undertake structured and agreed learning activities and teaching programmes, adapting activities according to pupil responses.
• Support pupils’ use of ICT and help develop their competence and independence when using technology.
• Prepare, maintain and use equipment and resources required for learning activities.
• Comply with policies and procedures relating to child protection, health and safety, confidentiality and data protection.
• Contribute to the overall ethos, work and aims of the school.
• Participate in relevant meetings, training, learning activities and performance development as required.
• Assist with pupil supervision outside lesson times, including before and after school and at lunchtime.
• Accompany teaching staff and pupils on visits, trips and out‑of‑school activities, taking responsibility for a group under the supervision of the teacher.

Qualifications and Skills

• Effective use of ICT to support learning.
• Ability to use other equipment and technology, including video and photocopier equipment.
• Understanding of relevant policies, codes of practice and awareness of relevant legislation.
• General understanding of the national/foundation stage curriculum and other basic learning programmes and strategies.
• Basic understanding of child development and learning.
• Ability to self‑evaluate learning needs and actively seek learning opportunities.
• Ability to relate well to children and adults.
• Ability to work constructively as part of a team, understanding classroom roles and responsibilities.
• Awareness of, and commitment to, equality of opportunity.
• Experience of working with or caring for children of relevant age.
• Good numeracy and literacy skills.
• Completion of the TDA induction programme for teaching assistants.
• NVQ Level 2 in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools, or equivalent qualifications or experience.
• Training in relevant learning strategies, for example literacy.
• First aid training or willingness to undertake training as appropriate.
• Pay and Benefits
• Pay range: Grade 5 SCP 9‑17
• Discounts on everyday purchases (Eden Red)
• Comprehensive free‑of‑charge health plan (UK Health Care)
• Cycle to work scheme via Halfords
• Access to the Blue Light Card
• Education sector leading CPD opportunities
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Mercian Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults.

All appointments are subject to enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks and satisfactory references.

We welcome applications from all sections of the community and are committed to promoting equality, challenging discrimination and developing community cohesion.

Application Information

Applicants should read the attached policies and submit their application as soon as possible. The vacancy may be closed early if a suitable applicant is found.

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