Teaching Assistant (Junior School) ref VNOPS19

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 a dynamic, fixed-term Teaching Assistant on a full-time, term-time only basis.

The Teaching Assistant will report to the Deputy Head of the Junior School and play a key role in supporting pupils’ learning, wellbeing and development. Working with individuals, small groups and whole classes, the post holder will help ensure all pupils can access learning effectively and achieve their potential. This includes understanding pupils’ individual needs, adapting support accordingly, and providing supervision to ensure pupils feel safe, secure and confident. A key aspect of the role is building positive relationships with pupils, promoting inclusion, self-esteem and independence, while also supporting their pastoral care and providing feedback on progress under the guidance of teaching staff.

Working closely with teachers and the Junior School Leadership Team, the Teaching Assistant will support the delivery of learning activities and intervention programmes, adjusting tasks in response to pupil needs. The role includes supporting ICT use, monitoring and recording progress, preparing resources, maintaining classroom environments and contributing to displays. The post holder will also support behaviour management in line with school policy, encourage positive conduct, and maintain regular communication with staff, pupils and parents.

Beyond the classroom, the role includes supervising pupils at break and lunchtime, supporting playground duties and ensuring equipment is safe and well maintained. Additional responsibilities include supporting school events, sports fixtures and off-site visits, assisting with administrative tasks such as reception duties and record keeping, and providing first aid support where required and trained.

The role requires flexibility and a proactive approach, with a willingness to support across all areas of school life. The Teaching Assistant will attend meetings, training and INSET days, and work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure the smooth running of the Junior School. All duties must be carried out in accordance with school health and safety procedures.

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.