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Work for Us

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.  If you are interested in any of the vacancies detailed below, please complete an application form.  We do not accept CV's.

Current Vacancies

SITE SUPERVISOR (D Grade)

We currently have a permanent vacancy for a Site Senior to support our Premises Team in the day to day maintenance of our school sites, commencing asap.

The working hours are Monday to Friday, 8.00 am to 4.00 pm, totalling 37 hours per week, 52 weeks per year, with a starting annual salary of £26,824.00.

You must have a good understanding of health & safety and maintenance, as you will be responsible for carrying out premises and grounds maintenance.  Duties will include simple repairs, helping with installations, general building maintenance (interior and exterior), grass cutting, compliance checks and security of the premises. 

You will order and issue maintenance and cleaning materials, and assist with the maintenance of the hydrotherapy pool, namely ensuring the water quality meets H&S guidelines, manage chemical levels, clean the pool areas, changing areas and toilets and deal with incidents of water contamination.  Part of your role will be to maintain admin records and databases, so basic IT skills are essential.  At the start and end of each school day, you will be required to manage the school transport arrangements.  On occasions, you may be required to drive school vehicles during your working hours.

We are seeking someone who is organised, able to manage their time and prioritise their workload, with good communication skills and diplomacy.  You should enjoy practical work and be an experienced DIY-er with the ability to work on tasks such as painting, plumbing, basic building work and gardening.  You must be confident using power tools.  This role is very physical and you will be working both inside and also outside throughout the year, in all weathers. 

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone wanting to start a career in premises management and there will be opportunities for specialist training and further development in the future.

For further information about this role please contact James Rosier, Site Manager and Federation Health & Safety Lead, on 01392 467168.  The application form and job description is below.  Please email your completed application to recruitment@ellentinkham.devon.sch.uk  Closing date for applications is Friday 6th February 2026.  Previous applicants need not apply.

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.