Job Introduction
Position: Teaching Assistant
Start Date: October 2025 or as soon as possible
Hours: 30 hours per week (8:45am–3:15pm, 30-minute unpaid lunch break)
Contract: Term-time only (38 weeks) + up to 5 paid INSET days
Salary: See online advertisement (pro rata + holiday pay)
About Us
Brookside Primary School is a vibrant, medium-sized school where children are truly at the heart of everything we do. Our motto, Learning for Life, reflects our commitment to nurturing the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally.
We are proud of our inclusive ethos and ambitious curriculum. As Ofsted noted in March 2025:
“There is a strong sense of community at Brookside Primary School. Pupils know that adults are there to support them. This helps pupils to feel safe.”
“Pupils are proud of their school. They are respectful and kind to each other.”
“The school’s curriculum is ambitious in all subjects. Staff expect pupils to achieve well.”
“Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) receive excellent support. Parents and carers of pupils with SEND are positive about the impact the school has on their children.”
The Role
We are seeking a positive, enthusiastic, and flexible Teaching Assistant to join our dedicated team. You will work initially in Key Stage 2, supporting pupils both in class and during break and lunchtimes.
This role will include:
- 1:1 support for children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, helping them access the curriculum both inside and outside the classroom
- Supporting individual pupils and small groups
- Delivering targeted interventions (following training)
- Assisting with lessons from across the curriculum
- Providing feedback to teachers
- Supervising and engaging with pupils during non-teaching times
- Supporting pupils with communication, interaction, and SEMH needs
- Assisting with intimate care (including toileting, where necessary)
What We’re Looking For
We welcome applicants with or without prior experience. What matters most is your enthusiasm to learn, commitment to inclusion, and passion for supporting children.
Essential qualities:
- A flexible and proactive approach
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Sensitivity to the needs of all children
- Willingness to undertake First Aid and other relevant training
- Basic qualifications in English and maths (Level 1 or 2) or a commitment to achieve them within two years
- Understanding of phonics or willingness to learn
- Discretion and confidentiality
- Availability for staff meetings and training
Why Join Brookside?
- A supportive and welcoming team
- Opportunities for professional development
- A chance to make a real difference in children’s lives
- A school that values curiosity, resilience, cooperation, and imagination
How to Apply
We strongly encourage interested candidates to visit the school before applying.
Please contact Mrs Sarah Ashcroft at: 01869 252482 or office.2202@brookside.oxon.sch.uk
To apply, complete the OCC Support Staff Application Form and email it to the school office.
Please note: We may interview before the closing date if suitable applications are received. Early applications are advised.
Safer Recruitment
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.