Why work for us?

Our pupils thrive in a mature, supportive, purposeful and happy environment. They benefit immensely from working with our trained, talented and dedicated Class Teachers and support staff, and from participating in a wide range of exciting and inspiring extra-curricular activities. As a result they make excellent progress but also grow into wonderful young adults.

By joining Ellen Tinkham School, you can expect:

• High quality, bespoke Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
• Career Progression
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• An excellent employee assistance programme which includes physiotherapy, counselling, wellbeing and access to private healthcare if applicable
• Staff discounts including the Blue Light scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• A wide range of staff training and development opportunities, including work based teacher training

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.   All our staff across the Learn to Live Federation require an enhanced DBS disclosure and the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of their role with confidence and fluency in English.  Shortlisted candidates may be subject to online checks.  If you are interested in any of the vacancies detailed below, please complete an application form.  We do not accept CV's.

Current Vacancies

PART-TIME LITERACY INTERVENTION TEACHING ASSISTANT

Are you an enthusiastic and dedicated Teaching Assistant looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and young people with Special Educational Needs?  We are seeking passionate and high-quality C Grade Teaching Assistant to join our Literacy Interventions team at Ellen Tinkham School, working with students with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD).  The position is a permanent part-time role, 3 days a week (18 hours), 39 weeks of the year during term time.

About the Role

As a Literacy Interventions Teaching Assistant, you will:

• To work under the guidance of the Teaching/Senior Staff and within an agreed system of supervision.
• Implement agreed work programmes with individuals/groups/, in or out of the classroom.
• Requires detailed knowledge about delivering literacy and supporting students with SEN.
• Assist the teacher in planning and preparation of resources.
• Work under guidance to provide support in addressing the needs of students who need particular help to overcome barriers in learning.
• To supervise and respond to questions and generally assist pupils in undertaking set activities when fulfilling this supervisory role.
• Attend training as required to fulfil the role.

What we are looking for

• Excellent understanding of how to deliver systematic synthetic phonics.
• Minimum Level 4 (Grade C) at GCSE in English.
• High standard of written and spoken English.
• Works well as part of a team and individually.
• Experience leading a small group or 1:1 interventions.
• Able to manage own time effectively.

What We Offer

• A supportive and experienced leadership team committed to staff well-being and professional growth.
• Access to Education Mutual for staff well-being support.
• A collaborative and supportive peer network as part of a federation of schools.
• An opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people with complex learning needs.

If you are passionate about special education and excited by the opportunity to work in a dynamic and rewarding environment, we would love to hear from you!  The position is a permanent part-time role, 3 days a week (18 hours), term time only, 39 weeks of the year. The salary is £10,706 pa.  The application form and job description is below.  Please email your completed application to recruitment@ellentinkham.devon.sch.uk   The closing date is Monday 20th April 2026.

MEALTIME ASSISTANT / PLAY LEADER

We are looking for enthusiastic Mealtime Assistant / Play Leader to join our team as soon as possible.  As part of a supportive team working alongside Teachers and Teaching Assistants, you will play a key role in ensuring lunchtimes and playtimes are safe, enjoyable, and well-organised for our students.

Your Role

• Supervise and assist students in classrooms during lunch
• Help with clearing up and serving meals
• Support and encourage children during playtime
• Lead fun, safe and inclusive games activities on the playground or in the Hall
• Respond to minor incidents while prioritising student safety and wellbeing
• Supervise children at playtime and keep them safe

What We’re Looking For

• Experience working with children in education or play settings is helpful, but not essential
• Enthusiasm, empathy, and a positive attitude
• Willingness to learn and follow guidance

Hours & Pay

Monday to Friday, 11.45 am – 1.45 pm, 10 hours per week, term time only (39 weeks per year).  Starting salary is £5,764.81 pa. The application form and job description is below.  Please email your completed application to recruitment@ellentinkham.devon.sch.uk 

TEACHING ASSISTANTS

Compassion, patience and purpose can change a student's life.  As a Teaching Assistant in our school, you'll be part of a dedicated team that believes every learner should be educated to a high standard and deserves to be seen, heard and supported. In this rewarding role, you’ll help create a classroom environment where students will continue their education, feel valued and empowered to grow.

Working closely with experienced Class Teachers, classroom support staff, therapists and families, you’ll play a vital role in helping students reach their full potential - academically, emotionally, and socially.

Your Role

• Provide one-on-one and small group support tailored to individuals' needs;
• Help deliver pre-planned learning within an inspiring educational environment;
• Assist with all classroom activities and behaviour management;
• Foster a positive, inclusive and safe environment for all learners;
• Help students build independence, confidence and life skills.

What You Bring

• A passion for working with students with special educational needs;
• Empathy, resilience and excellent communication skills;
• The ability to remain calm, flexible and proactive;
• A "team player" approach;
• Experience in an SEN setting is a plus - but not required.
  
  

Why Work With Us?

• You will be part of a supportive, professional team;
• Receive comprehensive training and professional development;
• Have access to excellent benefits including the Local Government Pension Scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, staff discounts, 'cycle to work' scheme and childcare vouchers;
• Free parking on site with an early arrival;
• Be eligible for a Blue Light Card;
• Have opportunities for advancement in special education;
• Given the chance to change lives - every single day.
  
  

The salary range at Grade C (based on 5 days per week, 39 weeks per year) starts at £18,301.32 rising to £18,887.92.  The working hours are 9 am to 3.30 pm, with a 4.15 pm finish once a week to include a team meeting. All positions are term time working, 39 weeks per year. Whilst we welcome applications from those looking for part-time hours, you will still be required to work the core hours of 9 am to 3.30 pm.

If you’re ready to make a meaningful difference, we’d love to hear from you.  Please email completed application forms to: recruitment@ellentinkham.devon.sch.uk for the attention of Victoria or Debbie.