Teaching Assistant Apprentice

  • Company: MELROSE LEARNING TRUST
  • Location: DL3 8JA
  • Type: Apprenticeship
  • Salary: Apprenticeship Minimum Wage
  • Sector: Education and early years
  • Ref: NAS-2000037369
  • Application Deadline Date: 30/06/2026
  • Start Date: 01/09/2026
  • Positions Available: 1
  • Working Week: Working between 8.00am and 6.00pm, 5 days per week inclusive of 1-day release for study at Darlington College.

Brief Description

Under the direction of the Head Teacher or a designated teacher, duties will include safeguarding and caring for pupils with special educational needs. Assisting teachers in the delivery of a multisensory curriculum. Work may be carried out in the classroom or outside the main teaching area.

Training to be Provided


  • Working 5 days per week inclusive of 1-day release for study at Darlington College

  • Training will be given in line with the Teaching Assistant Standard and will follow the Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning (new syllabus)

Future Prospects


  • The vacancy is Term Time only

  • Further progression may well be available in other areas within our sector, upon successful completion of the apprenticeship

Vacancy Detail


  • Attend to personal needs, including social, health, hygiene, first aid, and welfare

  • Assist with sick children and those with minor injuries

  • Help during mealtimes for children who have difficulty feeding themselves and supervise play

  • Aid in removing and replacing outer clothing and aprons

  • Encourage independence, self-help skills, and good hygiene practices

  • Assist with practical tasks, social training, and act as a positive role model

  • Assist with school displays and educational visits

  • Establish supportive relationships with children and parents, responding to individual needs

  • Promote self-esteem and independence in children

  • Prepare and maintain educational equipment/resources

  • Facilitate safety and development during individual or group activities

  • Support structured learning activities and promote independent learning

  • Foster inclusion and support for children with special needs

  • Participate in professional development to provide feedback on pupil progress

  • Assist with literacy and numeracy programs, recording achievement and progress

  • Support the use of ICT in learning and develop pupils’ competence and independence

  • Prepare and clear classrooms and work areas for lessons as directed

  • Monitor and report on individual children’s needs and behaviours

  • Contribute to records of children’s development

  • Provide administrative support for lesson planning and resources

  • Maintain pupil records and report on progress

  • Assist in planning and delivering work programs for children

  • Help in creating a supportive learning environment and displaying pupils’ work

  • Use strategies to support pupils’ learning goals and raise achievement

  • Monitor pupils’ responses and record progress accurately

  • Provide detailed feedback on pupils’ progress and behaviour

  • Be aware of school policies and procedures

  • Maintain confidentiality on school-related issues

  • Attend relevant meetings and participate in training activities

  • Supervise pupils outside lesson times, including before/after school and lunchtimes

  • Accompany staff and pupils on school trips and activities

  • Safeguard and promote the welfare of children, adhering to procedures

  • Comply with health and safety policies and report incidents/hazards

  • Take a proactive approach to health and safety to protect yourself and others

  • Confidence in assisting with basic numeracy and literacy

  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

  • Engaging with a range of people, particularly children

  • Organisational skills and flexibility in dealing with changes

  • Ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines

  • Common-sense approach to tasks

  • Fairness and positive role modeling

  • Patience, understanding, and willingness to help with personal needs

  • Confidentiality in handling information

  • Reliability and a flexible approach to work

  • Caring and sensitive disposition

  • Good organisational skills and a calm, positive attitude

Other Information


  • Please note that in line with UK apprenticeship regulations, you must have a valid and eligible residency status and the right to work in England. This should cover the entire expected term of learning and residency should be held for a minimum of 3 years, exceptions may apply please see Apprenticeship funding rules for full guidance

  • The successful applicant will be required to comply with all school policies, including the No Smoking policy.

  • The successful applicant will be subject to relevant vetting checks, including a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure before an offer of appointment is confirmed. Following appointment, the employee will be subject to rechecking as required from time to time by the authority.

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