Twyford School is a successful co-educational, independent day and boarding prep school for 400 pupils aged two to thirteen. Situated in the village of Twyford, near Winchester, the School is set within a truly enviable position of 30 acres of mature grounds, with a beautiful Queen Anne country house (pictured) as its centrepiece. Surrounded by stunning Hampshire countryside, the School prides itself on being one of the oldest prep schools in the country.
Twyford Pre-Prep offers an exceptional start to a young child’s education. As well as the National Curriculum subjects, we offer a fun-packed curriculum including Swimming, Dance, Art, Gymnastics, Ballet, Cookery, French, Music and Forest School. Our days are full of energy, creativity, play and learning, ensuring every child develops confidence, curiosity and a love of learning.
About the Role
We are seeking to appoint a warm, enthusiastic and committed Teaching Assistant to join our thriving Pre-Prep department at Twyford School.
This rewarding role will involve working closely on a 1:1 basis with a pupil in Year 2, supporting their engagement, confidence and progress within the classroom, alongside contributing to small group work and the wider life of the class.
The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of early childhood development and a nurturing, patient approach. A Level 3 qualification in Supporting Teaching and Learning, Early Years, or equivalent is desirable but not essential.
Part-time: 10 hours per week, Monday to Friday (1:30pm–3:30pm)
Term-time only (33 weeks per year). Fixed Term for one year.
For further information and an application form (CVs alone will not be considered), please email [email protected].
The closing date for applications is 12pm on Friday 12th June 2026.
This vacancy may close prior to the stated date and interviews will take place as a suitable field of candidates is obtained. Early submission of applications is recommended.
Twyford School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Job Description
Key Responsibilities
1:1 Pupil Support
- To provide dedicated 1:1 support for a pupil, enabling full access to the curriculum and active participation in classroom learning
- To support the pupil’s engagement, confidence and progress, using a nurturing, patient and consistent approach
- To develop a clear understanding of the pupil’s individual needs, strengths and development, including any medical or learning requirements
- To support the pupil’s social, emotional and behavioural development, promoting independence and positive relationships
- To adapt activities and approaches, under the direction of the class teacher, to ensure the pupil can access learning effectively
Classroom & Learning Support
- To work closely with the class teacher to support high-quality teaching and learning
- To contribute to small group and paired learning activities, supporting the needs of the wider class where appropriate
- To promote a positive, inclusive and engaging classroom environment
- With guidance from the class teacher, prepare learning resources, as required, to support teaching and learning
- To support the pupil, and where appropriate other children, during transitions and specialist lessons (e.g. Music, PE, Dance, Swimming)
- To accompany and support the pupil (and group where appropriate) on school trips and visits, under the direction of the lead teacher
Pastoral Care and Safeguarding
- To provide attentive and sensitive pastoral care, ensuring the wellbeing and happiness of the pupil at all times
- To remain vigilant and responsive to any concerns relating to safeguarding or pupil welfare, in line with the School’s safeguarding policies and procedures
- To maintain strict confidentiality while recognising when information must be shared appropriately
- To contribute to a safe, supportive and respectful environment for all pupils
General Duties
- To work collaboratively with colleagues, pupils and parents in a professional manner, reflecting the School’s values
- To familiarise oneself with relevant SEND, safeguarding and medical information relating to the pupil and wider class where appropriate
- To attend relevant staff meetings, briefings and INSET sessions, where appropriate to working hours
- To participate in professional development and required training (e.g. safeguarding, first aid)
- To assist with the care of children who become unwell or have an accident, following school procedures and recording appropriately
- To demonstrate flexibility in supporting the wider Pre-Prep (Nursery to Year 2), where appropriate and within working hours
- To contribute positively to the wider life of the school where reasonably possible
Staff Expectations
- To follow and promote the School’s code of conduct, safeguarding policy and procedures and to ensure the wellbeing of all pupils is their highest priority
- To contribute to the day-to-day running of the School and follow its policies and procedures, having due regard for the Health and Safety of self and others
- To treat each pupil and each other as individuals with courtesy and respect
- To take part in relevant training programmes identified by the School
- To work in a co-operative, diplomatic and flexible manner
- To carry out any other reasonable duties as requested by the Headmaster or Head of Pre-Prep
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
A good standard of secondary education, including English and Maths
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
A good level of basic IT skills, including Microsoft Office applications
Ability to support children on a 1:1 basis, in small groups and within the classroom, working collaboratively as part of a team
Ability to explain tasks clearly and adapt communication to suit the needs of young children
Strong ability to engage, motivate and support pupils to develop confidence and reach their full potential
A sound knowledge and understanding of:
The needs of children in the Early Years and Key Stage 1
Child development and how children learn
Ability to build positive and professional relationships with pupils, colleagues and parents
A friendly, caring and flexible approach, with patience and a calm manner
Ability to work with tact, discretion and maintain confidentiality
A clear commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
Willingness to familiarise oneself with and support the individual needs of pupils, including SEND and medical requirements
Desirable Criteria
A Level 3 qualification in Childcare, Early Years or Supporting Teaching and Learning (or equivalent)
Experience of working with children, either in a paid or voluntary capacity
Experience of supporting children on a 1:1 basis
Knowledge of online learning platforms or supporting classroom technologies
Understanding of strategies to support individual learning needs and inclusive practice
Benefits:
· Free hot meals, refreshments & beverages all year round when School is in situ
· Free parking
· Use of School’s sports facilities
· Cycle to work scheme
· Workplace pension
· Staff fee remission (following successful completion of the probationary period and subject to the School’s usual admission criteria being met)
Pay: £5,287.00 per year
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
