Job Description

Graduate Teaching Assistant | Waltham Forest | September 2026 Start

Are you a graduate looking to gain invaluable classroom experience before progressing into teacher training, educational psychology or another education-focused profession? A high-achieving secondary school in Waltham Forest is seeking a Graduate Teaching Assistant to join from September 2026 on a full-time, long-term basis until July 2027, with the potential to extend beyond the academic year.

This is an excellent opportunity to work within a school that combines strong academic standards with an inclusive and supportive culture. Staff are committed to ensuring every student reaches their potential through targeted intervention, high-quality teaching and exceptional pastoral care. Graduates are fully integrated into school life, working alongside experienced teachers and subject leaders while developing the practical skills needed for a successful career in education.

Graduate Teaching Assistant – What the School Offers

• £444–£513 per week via PAYE (inclusive of holiday pay)
• Full academic year contract until July 2027 with potential extension
• Weekly CPD covering behaviour management, safeguarding and effective classroom practice
• Opportunities to observe outstanding teaching across multiple subject departments
• Experience delivering structured intervention programmes for KS3 and KS4 students
• Clear pathways into salaried teacher training, PGCE courses and postgraduate study
• A welcoming staff team that prioritises mentoring and professional development

The Role

As a Graduate Teaching Assistant, you will support students across KS3 and KS4 within mainstream classrooms, providing academic assistance through 1:1 support, small-group interventions and whole-class learning activities. You will help pupils build confidence, improve attainment and develop independent learning habits while also supporting students with SEND where required. Working across a range of subjects will give you broad, meaningful secondary school experience throughout the academic year.

The Ideal Candidate

• Holds a 2:1 degree or above from a Russell Group or leading UK university
• Has previous child-centred experience through tutoring, mentoring, coaching or youth work
• Demonstrates outstanding communication and interpersonal skills
• Has a genuine ambition to support young people and build a career within education

Ribbons & Reeves is one of London's leading Education Recruitment agencies. We specialise in helping support staff secure long-term and permanent roles like this Graduate Teaching Assistant position in Waltham Forest. For more opportunities, search 'Ribbons & Reeves' online or get in touch today – we're here to support your next step.