KS1 Teaching Assistant (Phonics Experience Essential)

(Blackburn & Darwen)

Job Title: KS1 Teaching Assistant – Phonics Specialist
Location: Blackburn & Darwen
Contract: Full-time or part-time, ongoing
Pay: £85–£100 per day (depending on experience and qualifications)

About the Role

Teaching Personnel are recruiting an experienced KS1 Teaching Assistant to support pupils across Year 1 and Year 2 in primary schools across Blackburn and Darwen.
This role is ideal for a TA with strong phonics knowledge (Little Wandle, Read Write Inc, Letters & Sounds, Jolly Phonics).

You will be supporting both whole-class learning and targeted phonics intervention groups, helping children progress in reading, writing and early literacy.

Requirements

To ensure quality and suitability, applicants must have:

✔ Experience supporting KS1 pupils
✔ Strong phonics knowledge (Little Wandle / RWI / Letters & Sounds etc.)
✔ A minimum of a Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification
✔ Recent experience working in a primary school
✔ A valid DBS (or willing to apply for one)
✔ Good understanding of safeguarding and child protection

Please note: This role is not suitable for candidates without school experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver phonics interventions to small groups and individual pupils
• Support the class teacher with daily activities in Year 1 & 2
• Help raise attainment in reading, writing and early literacy
• Provide clear, consistent behaviour support
• Prepare learning materials and assist with classroom organisation
• Track pupil progress and give feedback to the teacher
• Encourage pupil independence and confidence

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

• A passion for early literacy and phonics
• Strong knowledge of KS1 curriculum
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• A caring, patient and supportive approach
• High expectations for pupil achievement

Why Work with Teaching Personnel?

• A dedicated consultant covering Blackburn & Darwen (Morgan)
• Flexible working options
• Access to regular CPD (including accredited phonics training)
• Competitive rates of pay
• Opportunities for long-term and permanent placements

How to Apply

If you’re an experienced KS1 Teaching Assistant with strong phonics knowledge, click “Apply Now” or contact Morgan Sharkey at Teaching Personnel for more information.