Teaching Assistant (GEMS)

Contract: Permanent

Hours: 32.5 hours, 39 weeks (term time plus one week)

Working Pattern: 8.45am start each day. Finish times: 3.35pm on Mon, Tues & Thurs, 4.30 on Weds and 2.55pm on Fridays.

Salary: Pathway 4, £22,953 - £24,505 per annum (FTE £30,515 - £32,578)

Site: Richard Barnes Academy (Fitzwilliam Campus)

Closing date: 9am on Fri 6th November

Start date: ASAP

Please note the trust may decide to withdraw the advert before the closing date or interview suitable candidates prior to the advert closing.

Do you want to help young people rediscover Ambition when education has felt challenging?

Are you ready to build Character through calm, consistent and trusting relationships?

Can you create a Safe, supportive environment where students can achieve success?

If so, Richard Barnes Academy are looking for you!

Your role:

As a Teaching Assistant within GEMS (Growing Educational Minds Successfully) at our Fitzwilliam Campus, you will support secondary-aged students to re-engage with learning, build confidence and overcome barriers to success.

Working alongside teachers, you will provide tailored support to individuals and small groups, helping students stay focused, develop positive learning habits and achieve their potential. Through patience, consistency and strong relationships, you will help create a calm, nurturing environment where every student feels safe, valued and ready to succeed.

You will work closely with colleagues, families and external professionals to provide personalised support, particularly for students with SEND, SEMH needs or those who have experienced challenges in mainstream education.

This role is ideal for someone who is compassionate, resilient and committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of young people.

About us:

Richard Barnes Academy is an alternative provision academy committed to supporting and raising the aspirations of children and young people who have been permanently excluded from, or are at risk of exclusion from, mainstream education.

GEMS (Growing Educational Minds Successfully) provides specialist support for secondary-aged students, offering a nurturing and inclusive environment where young people can re-engage with learning, develop positive relationships and achieve meaningful outcomes. Through our core pillars of Ambition, Character and Safe, we empower students to build brighter futures and recognise their own potential.

We value our staff and offer a supportive and inclusive workplace where your contribution truly matters. Alongside the opportunity to transform young lives, you'll benefit from professional development, supportive leadership and the chance to work within a Trust that champions wellbeing, equality and continuous improvement.

Why work for us?:

Join Thomas Deacon Education Trust and be part of a dedicated team committed to "working together to transform lives through education.” To learn more about the benefits we have on offer, check out our video here: Employee Benefits

At TDET, 95% of our new employees highly rate our induction programme. Benefit from the unwavering support of our dedicated staff, ensuring you feel welcomed and well-prepared from day one. According to our 2025 staff survey, 91% of staff are proud to work for TDET!

Ready to transform lives through education? Apply now and make a difference!

TDET - Working together to transform lives through education

Thomas Deacon Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The Academy will require the successful candidate to provide satisfactory references and undertake an Enhanced Check with the Disclosure and Barring Service.

At Thomas Deacon Education Trust, we are committed to equality of opportunity for all. We welcome applications from everyone, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. Join us in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where all contributions are valued.

If you have any questions regarding this post, please contact the HR Team on e-mail at [email protected]