Trainee Primary Teacher - Phil

Phil is a trainee primary teacher with recent, sustained experience in a UK primary school setting. He currently works as a Teaching Assistant at Didsbury Road Primary School, supporting learning across three Year 6 and two Year 5 classes. His role includes leading small-group Maths and Literacy sessions, delivering one-to-one reading support, and providing classroom cover when required.

Phil demonstrates a strong understanding of upper primary learning and pupil needs. She supports lesson delivery effectively, adapts tasks for different attainment levels, and maintains a calm, focused classroom presence. His experience supporting weekly Year 5 swimming lessons shows confidence managing pupils beyond the classroom and applying clear safety expectations.

He has worked with a wide range of pupils, including those requiring additional support, and has completed safeguarding training alongside ongoing SEND-focused professional development. Phil builds positive relationships with pupils and staff and works collaboratively with class teachers to reinforce learning objectives and behaviour expectations.

Strengths

• Primary classroom experience: Teaching Assistant across Years 5 and 6, supporting core subjects and class cover.
• Intervention delivery: Led small-group Maths and Literacy sessions and one-to-one reading support.
• Behaviour and safeguarding: Calm, consistent approach supported by formal safeguarding training.
• SEND awareness: Ongoing training in supporting pupils with additional needs.
• Professional communication: Strong planning, organisation, and communication skills developed through prior career.
• Reflective mindset: Actively seeks to develop whole-class teaching and assessment skills.