New Job: Primary Teaching Assistant in Braintree, Essex

Job Description

Primary Teaching Assistant | Braintree Primary School

Start: September 2026

Step into the classroom and start shaping young minds from day one.

This Primary Teaching Assistant role in a warm, community‑focused Braintree primary school offers the perfect springboard into Teacher Training, Educational Psychology or wider child‑development careers. You’ll gain hands‑on classroom experience, expert mentoring and the confidence you need before stepping into a PGCE, Schools Direct or Psychology‑related pathway.

You’ll work closely with experienced class teachers and SEN specialists, supporting learning, leading small‑group interventions and developing the practical skills universities and training providers love to see. If you’re serious about a career working with children, this is the most valuable year you can invest in.

Why this Primary Teaching Assistant role stands out

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  A high‑impact, pre‑PGCE role ideal for Psychology graduates

  
  


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  Work across EYFS, KS1 or KS2 depending on your strengths

  
  


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  Gain real experience supporting early literacy, numeracy and emotional development

  
  


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  Develop confidence leading small‑group interventions and 1:1 support

  
  


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  Supportive SLT with a strong focus on wellbeing and staff development

  
  


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  Clear progression into teacher training or SEN pathways for strong performers

  
  


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  A friendly, nurturing school environment with excellent mentoring

  
  

The Role – Primary Teaching Assistant

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  Support teaching and learning across EYFS–KS2, helping raise attainment

  
  


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  Deliver small‑group interventions in phonics, reading, writing and maths

  
  


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  Provide 1:1 support for pupils with additional learning or emotional needs

  
  


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  Assist with planning, preparation and classroom organisation

  
  


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  Help run extracurricular activities such as reading clubs, nurture groups or creative play

  
  


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  Build essential behaviour management and pastoral skills needed for future training

  
  

The Ideal Primary Teaching Assistant

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  A 2:1 or First Class degree in Psychology or a related child‑development field

  
  


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  A genuine passion for supporting young learners

  
  


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  Strong communication skills and a nurturing, patient approach

  
  


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  Confident, proactive and eager to learn from experienced teachers

  
  


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  A positive role model who can support children academically, socially and emotionally

  
  

This role is ideal for graduates aiming to apply for PGCE, Schools Direct, SCITT or Educational Psychology routes in 2027, giving you the practical experience that makes applications stand out.

If you’re ready to build your experience and make a real impact as a Primary Teaching Assistant in Braintree, apply with your CV today.

Ribbons & Reeves are London and Essex’s leading Education Recruiters, specialising in long‑term and permanent roles. To explore similar opportunities, search ‘Ribbons & Reeves’ online.