Teaching Assistant (Ratton School - South Downs Learning Trust)

Job Description

Hours of work: 35.5
Working pattern: Part-time, Term-time only
(As the position is part-time/term-time only, the above salary will be pro rata)
Fixed-term until: 31 August 2027

Closing date: 12 noon Wednesday 07 October 2026

For more information and to apply for the above post, please contact:

Ratton School (South Downs Learning Trust)
Park Avenue
Eastbourne
East Sussex
BN21 2XR

Phone:   [phone removed]
Email:    [email removed]
Website: www.ratton.co.uk

Please note, we do not accept CVs.

This is an exciting opportunity to join our school as a classroom-based Teaching Assistant, supporting learning in a dynamic and inclusive environment. You will work closely with teaching staff and the SEND team to support students’ academic progress and personal development—helping them access the curriculum, build confidence and thrive in the classroom.

In this role, you will assist with the day-to-day needs of our students, including delivering targeted interventions, reinforcing learning and supporting behaviour and engagement strategies. You’ll play a vital part in enabling students to make rapid progress and achieve their full potential.

We are looking for someone who can form positive, respectful relationships, set high expectations and bring energy, organisation and compassion to the team. You’ll be well supported by a large and experienced SEND department and have access to high-quality CPD.

Prior experience of working with children or in a school is useful but not essential—many of our most valued colleagues have grown into the role on the job. We particularly welcome applications from graduates or those considering a longer-term career in teaching, as this role provides excellent insight and experience in a vibrant secondary setting.

In addition to your core responsibilities, you will be expected to uphold the safeguarding and welfare of students at all times, following school policies and statutory guidance, including Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE).

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

Grade: Single Status 3, point 7 (£25,614 fte) per annum, pro rata  

Actual Salary: £21,232.58 gross per annum = £1,769.38 gross per month. 

Hours: 35.50 hours per week to be worked 8.30am-4.30pm (Monday), 8.30 -4.00pm (Tuesday to Friday) with a 30-minute unpaid break daily.

Contract: Fixed term 31 August 2027, term time only & holiday pay entitlement.
IMPORTANT DATES AND HOW TO APPLY

To apply for this role, please submit a completed application form (CVs will not be accepted).

• If you download the application form from our Vacancies page at Vacancies | Ratton, please email your completed form to: Mrs Hayden, Trust Executive Assistant at [email removed]

Closing Date: 12 noon Wednesday 7 October 2026

Interview Date: Tuesday 13 October 2026

Start Date: As soon as possible

Early applications are encouraged. We reserve the right to review applications as they are received and may close the advert early if a suitable candidate is found.

About us

Additional Information
The Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All staff will be expected to hold or be willing to obtain an enhanced DBS check or Enhanced check for Regulated Activity with the Disclosure & Barring Services (previously the Criminal Records Bureau). For further information about what is required in this process please go to https://www.gov.uk/dbs-check-applicant-criminal-record.
All school based staff have the responsibility for promoting the safeguarding and welfare of children.  All school staff should be aware of the school’s Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy and work in accordance with this document at all times.