Join Our Team as a Teaching Assistant (Secondary)
Contract: Full-Time, Term Time Only
Salary: £20,422.00 - £23,232.69
Benefits: Company Pension, Life Assurance, Employee Discount Scheme
Location: Headingley, Leeds
Start Date: April 2026
Are you ready to be part of a vibrant community dedicated to nurturing young minds? At Ormston School in Leeds, we’re on the lookout for passionate Teaching Assistants to join our new secondary class starting in April 2026. This is your chance to make a real impact on the lives of young people while developing your career in a supportive environment!
About Us
Located in the heart of Headingley, Leeds, our school provides a safe and encouraging space for students aged 5 to 18. With significant investment and a wealth of new resources, you will have the opportunity to help shape a supportive environment that fosters self-discipline, engagement, and a love for learning.
As part of the Polaris Community, we have been transforming the lives of young people for over 30 years. With over 15 SEN schools across the UK, we work collaboratively to ensure every pupil receives a tailored, diverse education in a safe and inspiring setting. We’re proud to say that 100% of our inspected services have been rated as Good or Outstanding by Ofsted!
Your Role
As a Teaching Assistant, you will:
* 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 their 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 provide marking support.
* Build positive relationships with your pupils to drive engagement and learning outcomes.
What We’re Looking For
To thrive in this role, you should have:
* A strong educational background, ideally to A-level, with at least GCSE Grade C or equivalent in English Language and Mathematics, along with sound IT skills.
* Previous experience in a similar role, such as a Teaching Assistant.
* Experience working with pupils with SEMH in an educational setting.
* The confidence to take on additional responsibilities in areas like Food Hygiene, Forest School, Lunchtimes, or School Yoga.
* Skills in behavior management and techniques.
* A commitment to professional development and a willingness to learn.
* A readiness to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check prior to starting work.
What We Offer You
At Ormston School, we value the emotional health and wellbeing of our staff and students. Here’s what you can expect:
* A workplace that prioritizes your emotional health and wellbeing.
* Support for your professional development through a variety of opportunities.
* The chance to make a significant difference in the lives of vulnerable children who deserve high-quality teaching.
* A friendly, inclusive team passionate about improving pupil outcomes.
The successful candidate will need to complete an enhanced DBS Check, with the cost covered by Polaris Community.
Polaris Community is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from all 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.