Job Description

Be a Part of a Community Driven by Opportunity at Harwich and Dovercourt High School

Are you an enthusiastic individual ready to empower students to achieve, belong, connect, and develop? Do you want to be part of a community where every professional demonstrates compassion and care for all?

At HDHS, we are driven by opportunity and a powerful belief that every student matters. Through our Preparedness Agenda, we work to support the young people of Harwich and the surrounding villages, dedicated to maximising their life chances and levelling any inequalities. We're looking for a dedicated Associate Teacher to become a vital part of our professional body and help us create an environment where every student knows, understands, and believes that the opportunity is here for them.

Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your career, we offer a dynamic and stimulating environment where you can truly thrive.

The successful candidate will work 32 hours per week (08:15am - 16:15pm, Monday to Tuesday and 08:15am -15:15pm on Wednesday to Friday)
This role is 39 weeks per year (term time, plus non-pupil days)
A Day in the Life:

You'll be responsible for bringing your passion and expertise to the following areas:

• Collation and organisation of cover work for teaching staff.
• Supervise pupils engaged in learning activities.
• Act as a role model and set high expectations of conduct and behaviour.
• Be aware of and comply with policies and procedures relating to child protection, equal opportunities, health, safety and security, confidentiality and data protection, reporting all concerns to an appropriate person.

(Full details can be found in the Job description and Person specification)

What We're Looking For:
You are the perfect fit for our team if you have:

• An NVQ Level 3 in learning support/early years (or equivalent), with successful recent experience working with children in a school or early years environment.
• Have a detailed understanding of child development and the school curriculum, alongside the ability to assess pupil progress, motivate learners, and effectively manage classroom behaviour.
• Exceptional communication skills to build trusting relationships with children, families, and staff, with a proactive approach to teamwork and information sharing.
• Strong literacy, numeracy, and ICT skills, combined with excellent organisational skills.
• A solid understanding of Child Protection, Safeguarding, Health & Safety, and Data Protection/confidentiality procedures.

Why Choose The Sigma Trust?
We believe in investing in our staff and fostering a culture of collaboration. We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive package designed to support your professional and personal life.

Professional Development:

• A robust CPD training program that empowers you to flourish.
• Unrivalled opportunities to collaborate with colleagues across the Trust, sharing ideas and building strong professional relationships.

Employee Benefits:

• A competitive salary and excellent pension scheme.
• A Health Cash Plan and Employee Assistance Programme for your well-being.
• Exclusive perks like the Cycle to Work scheme, discounted gym memberships, cinema tickets, and eligibility for a Blue Light Card.

Commitment to Safeguarding & Diversity

The Sigma Trust is committed to safeguarding and protecting the children and young people that we work with. As such, all posts are subject to safer recruitment processes, including the disclosure of criminal records, online checks and other vetting checks. We ensure that we have a range of policies in place which promote safeguarding and safer working practice across our schools.

The Sigma Trust is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of any protected characteristics. This is embedded in our vision 'To Be Greater Than The Sum Of Its Parts', where we believe we are strong and more successful working together, creating a workplace which celebrates diversity.

To Apply:

Ready to take the next step? Find out more about the role and apply by Midnight, Sunday 12th July 2026 via the following link:https://mynewterm.com/jobs/145061/EDV-2026-HADHS-93531

Shortlisting will take place on Monday 13th July 2026.

The interview will take place on Thursday 16th July 2026

Nb: Please note that only fully completed application forms will be accepted and we reserve the right to close this advert early should we receive an overwhelming response. Candidates may be invited to interview prior to the closing date, so an early application is advised.

We are unable to provide sponsorship for this position, so please ensure you have the right to work in the UK before you apply.

We are managing all current recruitment directly and kindly request that agencies do not contact us regarding open positions.

Information about the School

Harwich and Dovercourt High School is a vibrant, caring school serving the community. Every student is welcomed, challenged and supported to achieve their full potential and every student has opportunities and experiences to ensure their schooling is fulfilling and enjoyable.

At Harwich and Dovercourt High School we believe in partnerships between students, staff and the home. We believe in responsibility, ambition and commitment, where no challenge is too great and where great futures are nurtured.

Our goal is for every student to be proud of their efforts and achievement and for every parent and carer to be proud of their child, school and community. Our pledge is to work tirelessly in the pursuit of excellence.

Safeguarding The Sigma Trust is committed to safeguarding and protecting the children and young people that we work with. As such, all posts are subject to safer recruitment process, including the disclosure of criminal records, online checks and other vetting checks. We ensure that we have a range of policies in place which promote safeguarding and safer working practice across our schools.