TES – Dedicated Teaching Assistant

The Downs School; Newbury; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-regarded secondary school in Newbury is seeking an inspiring individual to support teachers and the SEN team. The role involves working with students to promote learning and manage behaviour. Ideal candidates should be organised, flexible, and motivated, with a passion for education. This rewarding position offers professional growth and a caring environment focused on staff well-being. Early applications are encouraged for this exciting opportunity.

Benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Flexible work options

Caring work environment

Supportive colleagues

Exceptional student engagement

Qualifications

• A passion for supporting all children in a school setting.
• Ability to work collaboratively with students and staff.
• Open to innovative ways of working to meet challenges.

Responsibilities

• Provide practical support to teachers and the SEN team.
• Work with small groups of children to promote learning.
• Manage behaviour and respond to student queries.
• Contribute to department development as part of a team.

Skills

Organised

Flexible

Reliable

Motivated

Professional attitude

Ability to manage behaviour

Enthusiasm for the role

Job description

We are looking to recruit a talented, motivational, and inspiring individual to provide teachers and the SEN team with practical support. You will work either individually or with small groups of children to promote positive learning and behaviour.

A passion and interest in supporting all children in a school setting is essential. This is an immensely rewarding role in its own right but also provides good experience for anyone considering training as a teacher.

About the Role

As a successful candidate, you will:

• be organised, flexible and reliable, with the ability to work with students in a professional and appropriate way
• be well-motivated and keen to show their enthusiasm for the role
• introduce work to students, set by a subject specialist, and support the students with their learning in the absence of the classroom teacher
• issue (not setting) work, managing behaviour, responding to students\' general queries and ensuring students are working to their full potential
• contribute to the development of the department as part of a dedicated team
• have a professional attitude that is open to innovative ways of working
• be flexible and adaptable when faced with challenges

In return, you’ll enjoy

• Caring Environment: Our positive ethos prioritises staff well-being and recognition.
• Empowerment: Work alongside ambitious, dedicated colleagues who are committed to developing the whole child.
• Exceptional Students: Engage with children who love being at school, exhibit exceptional behaviour and have a strong attitude towards their learning.
• Professional Environment: Join a stimulating and collaborative workplace in a school Ofsted labelled as ‘exceptional’ in October 2024
• Professional Growth: Access extraordinary professional development and support to enhance your skills.
• Flexible Work Options: We value work balance through the availability of flexible working, our ‘Time for you Tuesdays’, commuted INSETs and Employee Assistance Programme

About Us - The Downs School and Sixth Form is a successful, oversubscribed, and highly regarded secondary school located in the beautiful Downs area of West Berkshire. Praised in our recent Ofsted for the exceptional behaviour of our students, we are ranked in the top 5% of schools nationally for Progress 8, reflecting our commitment to high-quality teaching, learning, and student outcomes.

The Downland Federation (namely The Downs School & Sixth Form, Compton CofE Primary School and Basildon CofE Primary School) is preparing to become a Multi Academy Trust, called Summit Education Trust from April 2026.

Application Details - We encourage early applications, as we reserve the right to close this vacancy if sufficient applications are received. We welcome pre-arranged visits to the school. Please apply via TES and for more information, please contact [e-mail],

Closing date: 12 January 2026, 8am