Lead Teaching Assistant (Junior School) ref VNOPS20

Exeter School is the leading co-educational day school in the Southwest, educating over 1,000 pupils aged 3-18. The Junior School provides an exceptional foundation for pupils, combining academic ambition with strong pastoral care and a vibrant co-curricular programme. This is a school with a clear sense of purpose, where pupils are encouraged to be curious, kind and courageous learners. We are seeking an experienced and proactive Lead Teaching Assistant to take responsibility for coordinating the work of the Teaching Assistant team across our Junior School, alongside providing high-quality support for pupils. This permanent role is offered on a full-time, term-time only basis.

The successful candidate will support pupils’ learning, wellbeing and development across the school, working with individuals, groups and whole classes. They will promote inclusion, independence and self-esteem, build positive relationships with pupils, and provide pastoral care to ensure children feel safe, secure and supported. They will also support teaching staff with the delivery of learning activities, intervention programmes, assessment, and behaviour management.

In addition to classroom responsibilities, the Lead Teaching Assistant will oversee the organisation of the TA team, including leading weekly meetings, supporting deployment and cover arrangements, and liaising with the Deputy Head on timetables and staffing needs. They will also take responsibility for playground organisation, including rotas, equipment, safety checks and budgeting.

The role includes wider school duties such as supervising pupils at break and lunchtime, supporting school events and off-site visits, assisting with first aid (training provided), and contributing to administrative tasks and displays as required.

This is a varied and rewarding role requiring strong organisation, initiative and a collaborative approach. The successful candidate will play a key part in supporting both pupils and staff across the Junior School.

The closing date for applications is 9am on Wednesday 20 May 2026 with in person interviews taking place on 2 June 2026. Applications must include a completed Exeter School application form. For safeguarding purposes, a CV alone is not sufficient.

The role will attract a competitive salary as well as generous benefits including employer pension contribution, free school lunch during term time, free on-site parking, discretionary staff discount on school fees and use of indoor swimming pool and fitness suite.

Exeter School is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from any appropriately qualified person. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. Employment is subject to the receipt of two satisfactory references provided specifically for this post and addressed to the school, and to satisfactory DBS clearance.

This post falls into the category of Regulated Activity. Exeter School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Note on Sponsorship: We regret to inform you that, we are unable to offer sponsorship for work authorisation for this role. Therefore, candidates must possess valid authorisation to work in the UK without requiring visa sponsorship.