Teaching Assistant

Teaching Assistant

Start Date: 1st September 2026
Pay: SCC S3 FTE £25,133, pro rata £18,018
Hours: 8.45am to 3.30pm Monday to Friday
Contract: Permanent or Bank

Term time plus INSET days (39 weeks)

We are looking for a Teaching Assistant to join our team from the start of September 2026.

Sunnydown School is a specialist setting that supports students with social communication and interaction needs, which can present significant barriers to success in mainstream school environments.  We recognise that these differences can impact learning, relationships and self-confidence and require understanding, expertise and carefully designed provision to enable every student to thrive.

Our vision is to provide an education that is both ambitious and responsive. We expect the very best from every student, and we provide the care, structure and expert support that enables them to succeed.  At Sunnydown School, academic success matters, but it sits alongside something equally important: the development of character, resilience, independence and self-belief.

Job Requirements:

• Working with a range of class teachers to help deliver excellent teaching and learning
• Coaching students on a 1:1 or group basis
• Accompanying groups on trips
• Working with teachers to create stimulating classroom displays and learning resources
• Maintaining a safe and positive environment for students
• Creating opportunities for all students to reach their full potential, irrespective of ability
• Break and lunch duties - 2 x break duties per week and 4 x lunch duties per week

The right candidate will have:

• Good numeracy and literacy skills (essential)
• A proven ability to work using their own initiative
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to relate positively to students and adults
• Good IT skills
• Ability to work within a team environment
• Previous TA experience or experience with SEN children would be beneficial but not essential

Interview date: TBC

Contact: If you would like to arrange a tour of the school, please contact the Office.

We reserve the right to withdraw this vacancy at any time ahead of the closing date if there is a good level of response. We therefore recommend you submit your application as early as possible. We also reserve the right to interview shortlisted candidates ahead of the closing period.

Online Searches: As part of our safeguarding obligations, we will carry out online searches on applicants as part of our due diligence. In doing this, we will only be looking at information which might potentially impact your ability to carry out the role, and we recognise that there is a difference between your publish and private life. We will carry out these searches as part of the application process.