Psychology Graduate - Teaching Assistant

Are You a Psychology Graduate Looking to Work with Children?

We are seeking a motivated and compassionate Psychology graduate who is eager to apply their academic knowledge and transferable skills in a primary school environment. This Teaching Assistant role is an excellent opportunity for individuals considering a career in education, educational psychology, child development, or mental health support.

You will work closely with teachers and support staff to promote pupils’ learning, emotional wellbeing and positive behaviour, making a real difference to children’s early development.

Teaching Assistant – Ideal for Psychology Graduates
Location: A Primary School in Burnley
Hours: Full-time
Contract: Long-term
Start Date: 1^st September 2026, or ASAP once degree is completed

About the Role

As a Teaching Assistant, you will support children across the primary age range (EYFS, KS1 or KS2 depending on need), both in the classroom and through targeted interventions. The role is particularly well suited to Psychology graduates due to its focus on behaviour, communication, emotional regulation and child development.

Key Responsibilities

• Support pupils with their learning on a one-to-one and small group basis
• Assist the class teacher in creating a positive, inclusive learning environment
• Help children develop social, emotional and behavioural skills
• Support pupils with additional needs, including SEND or SEMH
• Observe and monitor pupil progress, behaviour and engagement
• Assist with classroom preparation and learning resources
• Promote positive behaviour and emotional wellbeing in line with school policies
• Adhere to safeguarding and child protection procedures at all times

Ideal Candidate Profile

• A degree in Psychology (or a related field such as Child Development, Criminology, or Social Sciences)
• A strong interest in working with children and supporting their development
• Understanding of child behaviour, motivation and emotional needs
• Empathy, patience and a proactive, reflective approach
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Previous experience with children (e.g. volunteering, tutoring, mentoring, care work) is desirable but not essential

We Offer

• A supportive school environment with experienced staff
• Excellent hands-on experience for careers in education or psychology-related fields
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
• The chance to make a meaningful impact on children’s lives

Safeguarding

Our Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.

If you are interested in this role, please outline your experience working with children and specifically outline your degree and relevant experience/knowledge you have working with children.

All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
For details of our privacy policy, please visit the Teaching Personnel website.