Teaching Assistant Jobs in Ipswich
Teaching Assistant Jobs in Ipswich | Term Time Only
Job Description: Teaching Assistant Jobs in Ipswich | Term Time Only
Main Responsibilities:
1. Assist teachers in preparing educational materials and lesson plans
2. Provide one-on-one support to students with learning difficulties or special needs
3. Supervise students during classroom activities, breaks, and field trips
4. Help maintain a safe and engaging learning environment
5. Assist in grading assignments and tracking student progress
6. Communicate with parents regarding student performance and behavior
7. Participate in staff meetings and professional development sessions
Required Skills & Qualifications:
1. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
2. Patience, empathy, and a positive attitude when working with children
3. Strong organizational and time-management abilities
4. Proficiency in basic computer skills and educational technology
5. Ability to work collaboratively with teachers and other staff members
6. Knowledge of various learning styles and teaching methods
7. First Aid and CPR certification (preferred)
Experience:
1. Previous experience working with children in an educational setting is preferred
2. Experience supporting students with special needs or learning difficulties is a plus
3. Familiarity with the UK national curriculum and teaching strategies
Pay Rates for Teaching Assistant Jobs in Ipswich | Term Time Only:
– Starting pay rates typically range from £9 to £12 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications
– Higher pay rates may be offered for candidates with specialized skills or extensive experience
– Some positions may offer additional benefits, such as pension schemes or professional development opportunities
Please note that pay rates and benefits may vary depending on the specific school or educational institution offering the teaching assistant position.
What Does a Teaching Assistant Do
Teaching assistants provide crucial support to teachers in the classroom. They work with students one-on-one and in small groups to help them learn the material and complete assignments. Teaching assistants may review lessons with struggling students, assist students with special needs, supervise students outside of the classroom, help teachers prepare materials and lessons, grade assignments, record grades, and perform clerical tasks. Teaching assistants allow teachers to spend more time teaching by taking on these support roles in the classroom.
The exact responsibilities of a teaching assistant vary depending on the school, teacher, subject, and age of the students. In general, teaching assistants in primary schools tend to do more one-on-one work with younger students, while teaching assistants in secondary schools often focus on a particular subject area. Some teaching assistants work solely with special education students. The role of the teaching assistant is to support the lead teacher and help students succeed in their education.
Qualifications Needed to Become a Teaching Assistant
The qualifications needed to become a teaching assistant vary depending on the employer, but in general, most teaching assistant jobs require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may require an associate’s degree or college coursework in education or a related field. In the UK, many schools ask for GCSEs in English and maths, often at grade C or above.
Previous experience working with children, either in a professional or volunteer capacity, is beneficial for aspiring teaching assistants. Any work or volunteer experience in education, childcare, tutoring, or youth programs can help candidates stand out. Some schools provide on-the-job training for teaching assistants to learn the specific requirements and procedures of the role.
In addition to education and experience, teaching assistants need certain personal qualities to excel in the job. Patience, compassion, creativity, flexibility, and strong communication and interpersonal skills are critical. Teaching assistants must be able to interact effectively with students, teachers, staff, and parents. A desire to help children learn and succeed is one of the most important qualities for a teaching assistant.
Term Time Only Teaching Assistant Jobs in Ipswich
Many teaching assistant jobs in Ipswich are term time only, meaning that teaching assistants work only during the school term and have time off during the school holidays. This schedule aligns with the school calendar and can be attractive to parents of school-age children or others who appreciate having extended time off.
Term time only contracts for teaching assistants are common in Ipswich and throughout the UK. Under these contracts, teaching assistants are paid an annual salary that is divided into 12 equal monthly payments. This means that even though teaching assistants do not work year-round, they still receive a steady income each month. When looking at the salary for a term time only position, it’s important to note that it has already been pro-rated to account for the school holidays.
One advantage of term time only teaching assistant jobs is that they provide steady work and income, but also extended breaks throughout the year. This can provide a better work-life balance for some people. However, others may prefer year-round employment or find it difficult to budget effectively with an inconsistent schedule. It’s a matter of personal preference and circumstance.
When searching for a teaching assistant job in Ipswich, be sure to check if the position is term time only or year-round. The job listing should specify the work schedule, but if not, ask the employer for clarification. This will help you understand the expectations and determine if the position is a good fit for you.
Teaching Assistant Salary in Ipswich
The salary for a teaching assistant job in Ipswich varies depending on the employer, qualifications, experience, and specific role. According to the National Careers Service, the average teaching assistant salary in the UK is £11,500 to £23,000 per year. Salaries tend to be higher in London and other major cities.
In Ipswich, a newly hired teaching assistant with minimal experience and qualifications can expect to earn on the lower end of the scale. With experience and additional qualifications, such as a degree or advanced training, teaching assistants can earn higher salaries. Some senior teaching assistant or higher level teaching assistant roles may offer salaries of £25,000 or more per year.
It’s important to note that many teaching assistant salaries in Ipswich are pro-rated for term time only work. This means that the annual salary is calculated based on the number of weeks worked, which is typically around 39 weeks, rather than a full 52-week year. However, as mentioned, this pro-rated salary is usually paid in 12 equal monthly installments, providing a consistent income.
When evaluating a teaching assistant salary, be sure to consider the full compensation package, including any benefits such as pension schemes, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. Some schools offer additional perks or bonuses for teaching assistants.
How to Find Teaching Assistant Jobs in Ipswich
There are several ways to find teaching assistant jobs in Ipswich:
Online Job Boards: Websites like Indeed, Monster, and TotalJobs list teaching assistant vacancies in Ipswich and throughout the UK. You can search for jobs by location, keyword, and other criteria, and set up job alerts to be notified of new postings.
School Websites: Check the websites of schools in Ipswich for job postings. Many schools advertise vacancies directly on their sites. You can find a list of schools in Ipswich on the Suffolk County Council website.
Local Council Website: Visit the Suffolk County Council website to search for teaching assistant jobs in Ipswich schools. The council advertises vacancies for many types of school jobs.
Recruitment Agencies: Some recruitment agencies specialize in education jobs, including teaching assistant roles. They can help match you with suitable positions and guide you through the application process. Examples include Hays Education, Randstad Education, and Reed Education.
Word of Mouth: Let your personal and professional contacts know that you are looking for a teaching assistant job in Ipswich. They may know of openings or be able to provide advice and referrals.
When searching for teaching assistant jobs, tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experience. Emphasize any work with children, education coursework, or transferable skills. If you are applying for a term time only position, make it clear that you are seeking that type of schedule.
Is a Teaching Assistant Job Right For You?
A teaching assistant job can be a rewarding career for those who enjoy working with children and want to make a difference in their lives. It’s a great role for those who want to work in education but may not want to be a lead teacher. Teaching assistants get to support students’ learning and development while working in a school environment.
However, being a teaching assistant is not for everyone. It can be a challenging job that requires patience, flexibility, and the ability to manage multiple tasks and responsibilities. Teaching assistants may work with students who have learning difficulties, behavioral issues, or special needs, which can be demanding. The job may also involve some physical tasks, such as supervising students on the playground or setting up classroom equipment.
Before applying for a teaching assistant job, consider whether you have the necessary skills and qualities for the role. Think about your experience working with children and your comfort level in a school setting. Teaching assistants need to be reliable, organized, and able to work effectively as part of a team.
For those who are well-suited to the role, a teaching assistant job can be a fulfilling career. It offers the opportunity to support children’s education, make a positive impact, and work in a dynamic school environment. Term time only positions can provide a good balance of steady work and time off. If you are interested in a teaching assistant job in Ipswich, start by exploring the jobs available and determining if it’s the right fit for you.
In Summary
Teaching assistant jobs in Ipswich can be a great opportunity for those who want to work in education and support students’ learning. Many teaching assistant positions in Ipswich are term time only, providing a schedule that aligns with the school calendar. The role of the teaching assistant is to support the lead teacher and help students succeed through one-on-one and small group work, as well as assisting with various classroom tasks and responsibilities.
To become a teaching assistant, you generally need a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, and experience working with children is beneficial. Teaching assistants need patience, compassion, flexibility, and strong communication skills. The salary for teaching assistants in Ipswich varies depending on qualifications and experience, with the average UK teaching assistant earning between £11,500 and £23,000 per year.
If you’re interested in a teaching assistant job in Ipswich, search online job boards, school and council websites, and work with recruitment agencies that specialize in education roles. Consider your own skills, experience, and work preferences to determine if a teaching assistant position is right for you. For the well-suited candidate, a teaching assistant job can be a rewarding career that makes a positive impact on students’ lives.
FAQs – Teaching Assistant Jobs in Ipswich | Term Time Only
1. What qualifications do I need to become a Teaching Assistant in Ipswich?
To work as a Teaching Assistant in Ipswich, you typically need a minimum of a Level 2 qualification in Support for Teaching and Learning in Schools or equivalent. Some schools may prefer candidates with higher qualifications, such as a Level 3 diploma or a degree in a relevant subject.
2. Are Teaching Assistant jobs in Ipswich only available during term time?
Yes, many Teaching Assistant positions in Ipswich are advertised as term time only roles. This means you will work during the school term and have holidays that coincide with the school breaks, such as half-terms, Christmas, Easter, and summer holidays.
3. What is the typical salary for a Teaching Assistant in Ipswich?
The salary for Teaching Assistants in Ipswich can vary depending on the school, your qualifications, and experience. On average, you can expect to earn between £17,000 to £23,000 per annum for a full-time, term time only position.
4. What are the primary responsibilities of a Teaching Assistant?
As a Teaching Assistant in Ipswich, your main responsibilities will include supporting the class teacher in delivering lessons, working with small groups or individual students, helping to maintain a safe and engaging learning environment, and assisting with administrative tasks.
5. How can I find Teaching Assistant jobs in Ipswich?
To find Teaching Assistant positions in Ipswich, you can search online job boards, such as Indeed, TES, and eTeach. You can also visit the websites of local schools and check their job vacancies section. Additionally, registering with recruitment agencies that specialize in education roles can help you find suitable positions.