Teaching Assistant

Join Our Team at Polaris Education - The Olive Frances School

Position: Teaching Assistant
Contract: Full-Time, Term Time Only
Salary: £21,257.48 - £23,232.69
Benefits: Company Pension, Life Assurance, Employee Discount Scheme
Location: Banbury, Oxfordshire

Are you ready to be part of a supportive and nurturing community dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for its pupils? If so, our new school in Banbury is the perfect place for you to grow your career and make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people.

About the School

Located in Banbury, Oxfordshire, our school accommodates up to 84 pupils, providing a safe and supportive environment for children aged 5 to 18 with a range of complex needs. We believe in fostering a positive atmosphere where every child feels valued, respected, and empowered. Our holistic approach ensures that academic progress goes hand-in-hand with emotional well-being and personal growth.

As part of the Polaris Community, we have been passionately improving the lives of young people for over 30 years. We take pride in our track record, with 100% of our education services rated as Good or Outstanding by Ofsted.

Your Role and Responsibilities

• Mentor and support one pupil or a small group of no more than six pupils.
• Assist the classroom teacher during lessons.
• Report on pupils' progress and concerns, collaborating with other staff to meet pupils' needs.
• Supervise pupils during non-classroom time, including extracurricular activities and school trips.
• Help with lesson planning and classroom preparation.
• Set work where appropriate and mark assignments.
• Build positive relationships with pupils to drive engagement and positive learning outcomes.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Strong basic education, ideally to A-level, with a minimum of GCSE Grade C or equivalent in English Language and Mathematics, along with sound IT skills.
• Previous experience in a similar role, such as Teaching Assistant.
• Experience working with pupils with SEMH in an educational setting.
• Confidence to take on additional responsibilities in areas like Food Hygiene, Forest School, lunchtimes, or School Yoga.
• Experience in behavior management techniques.
• Commitment to professional development and a willingness to learn.
• Must be willing to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check.
• Essential: Must drive and have your own transport.

What We Offer

• A workplace that values the emotional health and well-being of everyone, including you!
• Support for your development through a wide range of professional opportunities.
• The chance to make a significant contribution to the lives and lifelong learning of vulnerable children who deserve high-quality teaching in a safe environment.
• A friendly and inclusive team passionate about improving pupil outcomes.

Polaris Community is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from suitably qualified candidates. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff to share this commitment.