Graduate Teaching Assistant – Blackburn

Are you a recent graduate with:

• A passion for education and supporting young people?
• The drive to gain hands-on classroom experience before teacher training?
• The resilience and compassion to work in a diverse, community-focused environment?

If so, this could be the perfect opportunity to launch your education career in the heart of Blackburn, East Lancashire.

The Opportunity

A forward-thinking secondary school in Blackburn is seeking a passionate Graduate Teaching Assistant to join their outstanding team for the 2025/26 academic year. This full-time role offers excellent career development and a competitive salary of up to £560 per week.

Key Details:

• Start: September 2025 (earlier starts available for exceptional candidates)
• Salary: Up to £560 per week – highly competitive for the region
• Type: Full-time, permanent position with excellent benefits
• Location: Blackburn, with strong transport links across Lancashire

About the School

This exceptional, community-focused secondary school is renowned for:

Academic Excellence

• Consistently strong results with impressive student progress rates
• State-of-the-art facilities including cutting-edge technology suites
• Modern teaching methodologies and educational innovation

Inclusive Community

• Celebrating Blackburn's vibrant diversity with students from varied cultural backgrounds
• Outstanding pastoral care system and dedicated student support
• Strong local partnerships and community engagement

Professional Development

• Comprehensive staff training programs and clear career progression pathways
• Full induction program tailored specifically for Graduate Teaching Assistants
• Ongoing mentorship from experienced teaching professionals
• Supportive leadership team committed to your development

Your Role & Responsibilities

Academic Support

• Work across KS3 and KS4 classes, supporting core subjects including English, Mathematics, and Science
• Design and deliver 1:1 and small-group interventions to accelerate progress
• Collaborate with teachers to develop engaging learning resources

Student Development

• Build meaningful relationships with students as a positive role model
• Provide targeted support for pupils with SEN and/or EAL needs
• Assist with behaviour strategies to enhance engagement and learning

Professional Contribution

• Monitor and record student progress, contributing to whole-school initiatives
• Work across diverse learning environments in this multicultural school
• Play a key role in promoting the school’s inclusive and community-focused ethos

What We're Looking For

Essential Requirements

• Minimum 2:1 degree in any subject (English, Maths, Science, Psychology, or Education advantageous)
• A genuine passion for education and student support
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Cultural sensitivity and a proactive, adaptable mindset
• Resilience and professionalism in dynamic classroom settings

Desirable Experience

• Experience working with young people (mentoring, tutoring, coaching, volunteering)
• Understanding of educational challenges and support strategies
• Familiarity with diverse or community-focused educational settings

Why Choose This Blackburn Opportunity?

Career Development

• Clear Pathway into Teaching: Ideal preparation for PGCE, Schools Direct, or SCITT routes
• Real-World Experience: Gain hands-on experience in a supportive secondary school
• Professional Network: Build connections within Blackburn’s education community
• Transferable Skills: Develop skills valued across teaching, social care, and youth development

Personal Benefits

• Meaningful Impact: Help shape the future of local pupils and make a lasting difference
• Supportive Team: Join a collaborative and nurturing school environment
• Cost of Living: Benefit from affordable housing and living costs in Blackburn
• Innovation in Education: Access to modern teaching tools and methodologies

Next Steps

This Graduate Teaching Assistant role offers an incredible opportunity to begin your career in education in one of East Lancashire’s most inclusive and forward-thinking secondary schools.

Interviews are ongoing for September 2025 starts – apply early for priority consideration.

Ready to start your education career in Blackburn?

Contact Michael at KPI Education for immediate consideration.

INDEDU