Job Description

Location: London Borough of Islington

Contract Type: Fixed-Term Contract

Start Date: 1st September 2026

Reporting To: SENCO

Hours: 8.00-16.00 Term Time Only

About the Role

We are seeking a dedicated, enthusiastic and compassionate Teaching Assistant to join a supportive secondary school in the London Borough of Islington from September 2026. This is an exciting opportunity to make a positive impact on the educational, social and emotional development of students, including those with Special Educational Needs (SEN).

Working closely with the SENCO, class teachers and wider school staff, you will support students both individually and in small groups, helping them to access learning opportunities and achieve their full potential.

Key Responsibilities

As a Teaching Assistant, you will:

Support teaching and learning under the direction of the Headteacher, SENCO and Class Teachers.

Work with individual students and small groups, including those with SEN, additional educational needs and Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).

Assist in planning, preparing and delivering learning activities and resources.

Support literacy and numeracy interventions and help students access the full curriculum.

Monitor and record student progress, providing regular feedback to teaching staff.

Encourage positive behaviour and contribute to students' emotional and social development.

Assist with students' physical care and welfare where required.

Liaise effectively with teachers, support staff, parents/carers and external professionals.

Contribute to Individual Education Plans (IEPs), reviews and student progress meetings.

Support students during breaktimes, educational visits and extracurricular activities.

Act as a mentor for newly appointed Teaching Assistants and support the coordination of teaching assistant provision where required.

Undertake additional responsibilities as directed by the Headteacher or SENCO.

About You

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

Essential

GCSE Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics.

Experience of working with children or young people, preferably within an educational setting.

A Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (or currently working towards one).

A Degree in English, Maths or Science is desirable

Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Ability to build positive and professional relationships with young people.

Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Understanding of safeguarding, confidentiality and professional boundaries.

Knowledge of the National Curriculum and literacy and numeracy requirements.

Commitment to inclusion, equality and supporting all learners to achieve their potential.

Understanding of students' learning, emotional and physical needs.

Willingness to attend training, meetings and professional development activities.

Desirable

Experience supporting students with Special Educational Needs.

Knowledge of intervention programmes and learning support strategies.

Ability to monitor and evaluate student progress and maintain accurate records.

Experience coordinating support staff, training programmes or intervention initiatives.

Experience inducting or mentoring new Teaching Assistants.

Evidence of specialist knowledge in a curriculum area or specific learning need.

What We Offer

A welcoming and inclusive school community.

Opportunities for professional development and accredited training.

A collaborative and dedicated staff team.

The opportunity to make a meaningful difference to students' lives and educational outcomes.

Ongoing support from experienced leaders and colleagues.

Safeguarding Statement

This secondary school in the London Borough of Islington is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references, enhanced DBS clearance and all relevant pre-employment checks in line with statutory guidance.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV and supporting statement outlining how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role.