Teaching Assistant - Full-time

Woodlands; Riverhead; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

An inclusive primary school in Riverhead is seeking an enthusiastic Teaching Assistant for a fixed-term contract of one year. This position involves supporting children aged 4 to 7 during their learning experiences. Ideal candidates will bring energy, empathy, and the ability to build trusting relationships with pupils. Experience in a school setting is beneficial, but candidates with a passion for children's learning are also encouraged to apply. The role is subject to enhanced DBS clearance and other pre-employment checks.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children is ideal but not essential.
• Ability to respond to children's behaviour with clarity.
• Commitment to creating a safe and nurturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Support the class teacher(s) with daily activities.
• Create inclusive learning experiences for young children.
• Contribute to safeguarding and promoting welfare of children.

Skills

Energy and empathy

Patience and compassion

Ability to establish clear boundaries

Building trusting relationships

Interest in children’s outdoor play and learning

Job description

Teaching Assistant – Fixed-Term Contract (1 Year)

Hours: 08:45–15:15, Monday to Friday (Term Time Only)
(With the expectation that Teaching Assistants leave once all children have been safely dismissed)

Salary: Kent Range KRA (pro-rated)

Riverhead Infants’ School is seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, caring and outgoing Teaching Assistant to join our warm, highly inclusive and supportive school community. This is a fixed-term appointment for one year, working with children aged 4 to 7.

Role Accountability

In the first instance, Teaching Assistants are accountable to the class teacher(s) with whom they work daily. Teaching Assistants at Riverhead also receive overall line management from either the EYFS Lead or the SENCO, depending on their deployment and the needs of the children they support.

We are looking for someone who:

• Brings energy, empathy and a genuine passion for supporting young children’s learning.

• Understands that behaviour is a form of communication and can respond with patience, compassion and clarity.

• Is confident in establishing clear boundaries and expectations to help children feel safe and secure.

• Can build positive, trusting relationships with pupils and colleagues alike.

• Has experience of, or a keen interest in, children’s outdoor play and learning, which forms a valued part of our curriculum and ethos.

• (Ideally) has previous experience working in a school or similar setting, although this is not essential for the right candidate.

At Riverhead Infants’ School, we pride ourselves on being a friendly, inclusive and nurturing environment for children, staff and the wider community. You will be joining a fantastic and dedicated team, all committed to providing high-quality learning experiences and helping every child flourish.

Safeguarding Statement

Riverhead Infants’ School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check, and appointment will be subject to satisfactory references and all other relevant pre-employment checks in line with KCSIE guidance.

Start date: January 2026 (subject to enhanced DBS clearance and satisfactory references)