Teaching Assistant

Roles and responsibilities

Embrace and encourage the ethos and standards of excellence as defined in the GEMS Core Values.
Assist the teacher with reading related activities.
Run small group activities inside or outside the classroom as directed by the teacher.
Prepare and tidy up classroom activities. Mount work displays and assist with preparation of displays.
Photocopy documents and assist with preparation of worksheets etc as requested.
Responsible for covering class for short periods of time in emergency situations.
Tidy and rearrange stock cupboards and distribute new stock.
Take children to toilet and change/clean them when necessary.
Develop familiarity with relevant aspects of the curriculum eg literacy,

numeracy and Phonetics.

Ensure the GEMS policies, procedures, and codes of conduct are followed at

all times.

Initiate effort and energy beyond the typical work day, where the tasks require additional commitment.
Attend staff meetings and serve on committees as required.
Ensure tact, confidentiality and discretion at all times. Maintain confidential information and ensure information pertaining to students and the school is not shared or discussed without the approval of the teacher or senior management team.

Perform other duties as requested by direct & dotted reporting line managers / supervisors.
1. Support in Classroom Instruction:
Assist in Delivering Lectures: TAs may help the professor by delivering parts of the lecture or presenting on specific topics. In some cases, TAs may lead smaller group discussions or review sessions to reinforce concepts taught in class.
Facilitate Discussions: In smaller class settings or discussion groups, TAs may lead discussions, answer student questions, and guide students through complex topics. This often includes encouraging student participation and ensuring a supportive learning environment.
Clarify Course Content: Answer students’ questions during or outside of class, helping them to better understand course material. TAs serve as an additional resource for students who may need more clarification on lectures or readings.
Assist in Classroom Management: Help with maintaining order during lectures, managing class participation, and handling disruptions. TAs may also assist with the distribution and collection of course materials (e.g., assignments, handouts).
2. Grading and Assessment:
Grading Assignments and Exams: TAs often assist with grading assignments, quizzes, mid-term exams, and final exams. This can include grading papers, essays, lab reports, and projects, depending on the subject.
Provide Feedback: Offer constructive feedback to students on their work, explaining areas of strength and areas that require improvement. This may also involve helping students understand grading criteria.
Maintain Grading Records: Keep accurate and organized records of student grades, attendance, and participation. TAs may also help with inputting grades into learning management systems (e.g., Blackboard, Moodle).
Assist with Formative Assessments: Help professors in conducting formative assessments, such as in-class activities, quizzes, and informal evaluations of student progress.

Desired candidate profile

Qualifications / knowledge:

Good level of general education especially in Maths and English.

Skills:

Strong communication skills with excellent standard of written and spoken English. ICT skills desirable. Able to handle a range of tasks, work under pressure and relate well to children and colleagues.

Experience:

Previous experience as a teaching assistant or working with children preferred.
Strong Communication Skills: The ability to explain complex concepts clearly, both in writing and speaking, is crucial for assisting students and interacting with the professor and peers.
Organization and Time Management: TAs are often juggling multiple tasks at once, such as grading assignments, preparing lessons, and helping students. Strong organizational skills are necessary to manage their responsibilities effectively.
Patience and Empathy: Working with students requires understanding and patience, especially when students struggle to understand content. A TA should be approachable and supportive.
Academic Expertise: TAs should have a solid understanding of the course material and be able to help students grasp the subject matter effectively.
Collaboration Skills: Being able to work effectively as part of a team with the lead professor and other TAs is essential for ensuring the success of the course and a smooth teaching process.
Problem-Solving Skills: A TA may need to address student issues, such as clarifying misunderstandings, resolving conflicts, or offering alternative approaches to learning.
Adaptability and Flexibility: TAs should be adaptable to changes in the course structure, new teaching methods, or unexpected challenges that arise in the classroom.