Early Years Teaching Assistant - Ark Priory

Ark Priory admitted its first two reception and nursery classes (90 pupils) in September 2013. It is a mixed, non-denominational; two form entry primary school for local children in East Acton. It offers an inclusive and inspiring education in a community school with the highest possible aspirations for its pupils. We place great emphasis of teaching our pupils social norms and nurturing a sense of community belonging.  A clearly defined set of values ‘Explore, Endeavour and Excel’ are shared by all stakeholders, permeates all aspects of our work. Ark Priory had a highly successful first year and in June 2015 was graded outstanding by Ofsted. Read the full report here. From September 2019, it now has nursery through to Year 6 pupils.

The school is part of Ark, an educational charity with a network of academies in Birmingham, Hastings, London and Portsmouth. Ark schools are happy, well-run schools characterised by high ambitions, high achievement and exemplary behaviour with the mission that all pupils have the opportunity to go to university or pursue a career of their choice. The academy opened in September 2013 with ambitious plans and targets. These were fully met. The academy achieved a remarkable amount in its first year, having established a clear identity, strong pedagogy and an aspirational culture which is underpinned by Ark pillars of ‘Knowing every child’. Ark Priory also has an academy song that highlights our motto ‘Courage to fly’ and our school values, ‘Explore, endeavour and excel’ showing that these permeate through all aspects of academy life. Classes are named after famous explorers and other influential figures from history who were catalysts for change and who personify our values, such as Seacole, Shackleton  and Einstein.

We have strong links with the wider community and we encourage our students to ensure they become part of the community by participating in various local fairs and events. Our school also regularly welcomes external visitors including as a dance group workshop, a scientist and an explorer! Parents are also a big part of our community and regularly volunteer at the school and organise a variety of fundraising events from bake sales to raffles to bingo nights.

We understand the importance of investing in our staff and providing them with the necessary training and development to achieve our shared goals. In addition to frequent in-school training, regular external training is available to everyone. Staff are encouraged to bring back a "learning take-away", in order to continue this training in school and pass any knowledge or best practices onto the rest of the team. Our training doesn’t stop once you reach a certain level or learn a certain skill – we’ll support you throughout your whole career, from starting out as a trainee to running your own school.

The key to our success has been high expectations and the pursuit of excellence that our teachers instil in our young learners throughout their learning journey. Please see our website for further information.