Teaching Assistant

What skills and experience we're looking for

The Five Islands Academy is seeking an enthusiastic and committed Teaching Assistant to join our welcoming island community. We are an all-age, multi-site Church of England academy serving the five island communities of Bryher, St Agnes, St Martin's, St Mary's and Tresco. Rated Good by Ofsted (November 2023), with Outstanding for Personal Development, our school is a place where pupils develop a powerful sense of community and are supported to reach their full potential.

We have an exciting opportunity based at our small St Martin’s Base from September 2026. Post holders will work closely with the St Martin’s Lead Teacher, supporting children with one-to-one and small group learning both inside and outside the classroom.

About You

You will have a patient, caring and child-centred approach, and a genuine commitment to inclusion and the wellbeing of all learners. You will be able to build positive relationships with pupils, support them across all curriculum areas, and respond with sensitivity to a range of educational, physical and emotional needs. Experience of working with children with SEND is desirable, as is a relevant vocational qualification (NVQ Level 3), though enthusiasm and a willingness to learn and develop professionally are equally valued. You must hold, or be working towards, a Grade 4/C or above in English and Maths GCSE, and have a working knowledge of basic ICT.

What the school offers its staff

Working for TPAT and Benefits

‘The Trust that Schools want to join’ Ofsted - 2019

We are an inclusive and progressive Trust and believe that all children and young people should have the best possible life chances. If you share this belief, we would love you to work with us.

We care about our staff and value their skills, contribution and expertise. Our commitment to growing great people means that we support staff in their own professional growth and development and empower them through support and career opportunities. Whether you choose to work in one of our schools, or are based in our central team, you will thrive in a stimulating, friendly and diverse environment that nurtures talent and celebrates success.

If you choose to work for us, you will receive

• A competitive salary
• National terms and conditions of employment and access to either Teachers Pension or Local Government Pension Schemes
• Cycle to work scheme
• Eye voucher scheme
• Access to CPD and career pathways to further develop your career
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) which provides employees with free confidential advice and support on a variety of personal, family or workplace issueshhtps://www.employeeassistance.org.uk/

Commitment to safeguarding

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our students and all posts are subject to DBS check. We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within our Academy community. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and actively encourage teachers and support staff from all backgrounds, cultures, perspectives and walks of life to apply to work with us. We are a Church School, and as such nurture the wisdom of being in balance with doing. We appreciate our gifts and those we have to offer as members of a diverse global family.