Teaching Assistant
Closing in 20 days (7 January 2026 5:00 pm)
Job details
Salary: Grade 14 – NJC points 4 – 6 (£25,185 – £25,989) Actual starting salary £19,672
Employer: The Castle School
Location: Taunton, Somerset, TA1 5AU
Contract type: Fixed term
Working pattern: Full time
Closing date: 7 January 2026 5:00 pm
About the job
Key information
33 hours 45 minutes per week
8.15am – 3.30pm (including a 30-minute unpaid break)
Term time plus INSET days – 39 weeks per year
Grade 14 – NJC points 4 – 6 (£25,185 – £25,989)
Actual starting salary £19,672
Fixed Term until August 2026
Our school is part of the Blackdown Education Partnership, we believe that our schools should sit at the heart of our communities; that there are no limits to what our children and young people can achieve; and that they should be great places to work and learn.
We are incredibly proud of our Trust and the schools within it. Strong partnerships, collaboration and generosity are the bonds which underpin our collective mission to provide great education for all children no matter what their starting point or their background.
What will I be doing?
The Castle School is seeking a Teaching Assistant to support students with a wide range of challenging needs including physical, language and communication difficulties, social and emotional difficulties as well as specific learning difficulties. The work may be with small groups, 1:1 or within the classroom and the schools’ SEMH provisions.
Hours of work for Teaching Assistants are usually 8:15am to 3:30pm Monday to Friday, with a 30-minute unpaid lunch break. In addition, colleagues are required to attend Department and Full Staff meetings. Part time applications may be considered for the right candidate. This is a fixed-term role until the end of August 2026 due to funding.
Applicants should be enthusiastic, patient, demonstrate flexibility, initiative and excellent communication skills, be a team player and have strong empathy skills. Previous experience in a similar role is desirable but not essential as training will be provided.
What is in it for me?
We can offer you: An opportunity to work in an experienced and supportive team from whom you can learn, develop and grow. A friendly, busy and dynamic workplace where each day is different from the last. A competitive salary. Wider opportunities to be involved across our Trust. An energised and professional working environment.
DBS check
DBS check required
Supporting documents and information
All applications should be made by completing the application form available, including evidence of how you meet the person specification for the role and should be submitted by 9am on the closing date.
Further details are available within the job description and person specification.
Closing date: Wednesday 7 January 2026 at 5:00pm
Interviews: Week commencing 12 January 2026