Teaching Assistant

Wheldon Infant School is a small, thriving school with big ambitions. Our staff are united by a shared commitment to excellence and a focus on improving outcomes for all our pupils. We were proud to be rated "Good" in our most recent Ofsted inspection (May 2025), and we continue to strive towards the highest standards in everything we do.

We are looking for an individual who is passionate about education, eager to raise standards, and excited about working as part of a supportive, hardworking team. Whether you are an experienced Teaching Assistant or new to the role, we welcome applications from candidates who share our vision of providing the best learning experience for our children.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work closely with classroom teachers to plan and deliver tailored interventions for students with special educational needs.
• Provide one-on-one or small group support to students, focusing on their individual learning goals.
• Adapt teaching methods and materials to meet the diverse needs of students with varying abilities and learning styles.
• Monitor and track student progress, regularly reporting to teachers and SENCO.
• Create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and empowered.
• Collaborate with the SENCO and other staff to develop and implement individual education plans and behaviour management strategies.
• Foster positive relationships with students, parents, and carers, ensuring effective communication and engagement.
• Assist with classroom organisation and administration, as needed.
• Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge.

• Qualifications:
• Minimum of a Level 2 Teaching Assistant qualification or equivalent experience.
• Previous experience working with students with special educational needs in an educational setting.
• Knowledge of a range of special educational needs and interventions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine passion for supporting children's educational and emotional development.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Desirable Qualifications: • Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification or equivalent. • First Aid/DBS certification. • Experience with assistive technology and augmentative communication systems. • Training in behaviour management and de-escalation techniques.

For further information or to make an appointment to visit please contact Mrs Kelly Spears,Office Manager on 01977 553528 or email HR@wheldon.wakefield.sch.uk

Wheldon Infant School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

All appointments are made in accordance with safer recruitment practices and the statutory guidance in Keeping Children Safe in Education. Online checks will be carried out on all shortlisted candidates, and all appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and checks regarding suitability to work with children.

In accordance with the Childcare (Disqualification) Regulations 2009, if you are shortlisted for this post you will be required to declare that you are not Disqualified (or Disqualified by Association) from working within this setting.

The successful applicant will be required to complete a Disclosure Application Form and to provide criminal conviction information.

Completed application forms should be returned to Mrs Kelly Spears, Wheldon Infant School and Nursery, Francis Street, Castleford, WF10 1HF or emailed to HR@wheldon.wakefield.sch.uk by no later than Monday 5th October 2026 at 10am.

Interview dates: Friday 9th October 2026