Teaching Assistant (Maternity Cover)

Contract: Fixed Term until 31^st Oct 2026

Hours: 33.75 hours, term time plus one week (39 weeks)

Working pattern: 8.15am – 3.30pm, Mon - Fri

Salary: Pathway 3, £21,288 - £22,702 (FTE £27,254 – £29,064)

Site: Thomas Deacon Academy

Closing date:  9am on Monday 19^th January

Start date: ASAP

Please note the trust may decide to withdraw the advert before the closing date or interview suitable candidates prior to the advert closing.

Are you passionate about education & eager to make a difference in young learners’ lives? 

Can you provide compassionate support for pupils, especially those with special needs?  

If so, join our team of teaching assistants who want to make a difference to our students!

Your role:

As a Teaching Assistant, you’ll be a vital part of our inclusive learning community. Working closely with teachers and the SENDCo, you’ll support students in overcoming barriers to learning, whether through tailored interventions, classroom support, or one-to-one guidance. You’ll help students build confidence, develop curiosity, and find the courage to reach their full potential.

Your role will be varied and impactful: from assisting with lesson planning and behaviour support, to liaising with specialist services and contributing to a positive learning environment. You’ll be a role model of courtesy, a champion of compassion, and a steady source of commitment to every child’s success.

You have strong communication skills, a flexible and reliable approach, and a genuine dedication to student welfare. You’ll need GCSEs in Maths and English, and while experience in a school setting is desirable, it’s your passion and values that will truly set you apart.

About us:

At Thomas Deacon Academy, you’ll be part of a collaborative and inclusive environment where staff are valued and supported. We offer excellent opportunities for professional development, including access to training and career progression within the Thomas Deacon Education Trust. You’ll work in a modern, well-resourced setting with a strong sense of community and shared purpose.

The Academy’s Ofsted inspection in November 2024 noted that “pupils benefit from a welcoming environment where diversity is celebrated. They enjoy celebrating each other’s differences and participating in cultural activities. The school provides an ambitious curriculum that ensures pupils develop a strong foundation of knowledge and skills from Year 3 through to Year 13, preparing them well for their next stage of education or employment. The Ofsted inspection rated all areas, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and sixth-form provision, as 'Good'”.

At Thomas Deacon Academy, we believe in the power of courtesy, commitment, compassion, courage, curiosity, and confidence. These values are at the heart of everything we do, and we are looking for someone who embodies them in their work.

Why work for us?:

Join Thomas Deacon Education Trust and be part of a dedicated team committed to "working together to transform lives through education.”  To learn more about the benefits we have on offer, check out our video here: Employee Benefits

At TDET, 95% of our new employees highly rate our induction programme. Benefit from the unwavering support of our dedicated staff, ensuring you feel welcomed and well-prepared from day one.  According to our 2025 staff survey, 91% of staff are proud to work for TDET!

Ready to transform lives through education?  Apply now and make a difference!

TDET - Working together to transform lives through education

Thomas Deacon Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The Academy will require the successful candidate to provide satisfactory references and undertake an Enhanced Check with the Disclosure and Barring Service.

At Thomas Deacon Education Trust, we are committed to equality of opportunity for all. We welcome applications from everyone, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. Join us in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where all contributions are valued.

If you have any questions regarding this post, please contact the HR Team on e-mail at  hrteam@tdet.education