Teaching Assistants needed at PQA Bicester
Location: PQA Bicester (Bicester, Oxfordshire)
Hours: Saturdays, during term time. Options include:
* Poppets (ages 4–5): 9.45am–11.30am
* AM Academy (ages 6–18): 9.45am–13.00pm
* PM Academy (ages 6–18): 13.45pm–17.00pm
One Academy session is approximately 3 hours of teaching time. We can be flexible on hours depending on your availability; whether you’d like to support our youngest performers in Poppets, one Academy session, or the full day.
Pay: £39.00 - £50.00 per Academy session or £25.00 if just doing Poppets (based on experience)
Contract type: Part-time, self-employed/freelance basis
About us
The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA) is a weekend performing arts school for 4–18 year olds. At PQA Bicester, we deliver exciting training in Poppets (4-6 year olds), Comedy & Drama (6-18 year olds), Musical Theatre (6-18 year olds), and Film & Television (6-18 year olds). We are passionate about giving every child a chance to grow in confidence, learn new skills, and discover their creative potential in a safe and supportive environment. Have a look at our website - www.pqacademy.com for more information on what we do.
The role
We are looking for enthusiastic and reliable Teaching Assistants to join our friendly team. You will support our teachers across different modules, working with children of varying ages and abilities. The role is varied and may involve:
* Assisting with class activities and workshops
* Supporting individual students who may need extra help
* Helping with behaviour management in a positive, encouraging way
* Assisting with rehearsals, shows, and filming projects
* Supporting with general admin, sign-in, and welfare duties
What we’re looking for
Our Teaching Assistant positions are ideal for someone with a background in the performing arts; for example, students currently training in drama, musical theatre, dance, or film, or those who have already completed their studies. Performing arts training is highly valued, as our TAs are often asked to step in and cover classes when needed, and we encourage progression into teaching roles as opportunities arise.
That said, if you don’t have formal training but you’re confident, enthusiastic, and passionate about supporting young people in a creative setting, we’d still love to hear from you.
We’re committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and identities.
In terms of specific need, we're mainly looking for assistance in Poppets, Musical Theatre and Drama.
We’re looking for people who are:
* Confident communicators who can engage positively with children and young people
* Reliable team players who are invested in the work we do at PQA
* Enthusiastic, adaptable, and open to learning new skills
* Interested in developing their own experience in education and the performing arts
Why join us?
* Full induction and training on Academy procedures provided
* Access to Online Safety and Child Protection training (mandatory for all staff)
* Be part of a supportive, creative, and welcoming team
* Gain valuable experience in education and performing arts
* Play a role in inspiring and developing the next generation of young performers
* Opportunities to progress into teaching roles with training and mentoring
Safeguarding
PQA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff must share this commitment. Completion of our Online Safety and Child Protection training is mandatory for all team members. An enhanced DBS check on the Update Service is required. If you do not have one, we can arrange this for you.
Eligibility (please read before applying)
* You must be 18 or over to apply. This is due to safeguarding and supervision responsibilities (acting as the responsible adult, and insurance requirements).
* Right to work in the UK
* Available on Saturdays during term time
How to apply
Please send your CV and a short cover note to chanel.smith@pqacademy.com explaining why you’d be a great fit for the role.