Athens, Greece

Teaching Assistant
Candidate Brief

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

Welcome from the Headteacher,
Jon Perriss

Dear Candidate,

Thank you for taking the time to consider this position. St. Catherine's British School is, by
reputation, the school in Athens, and indeed, in Greece. We are one of only two HMC
schools in Greece and are an executive member of COBIS.

We are a large school with top quality facilities, bright and aspirational students, talented
staff, and fantastic parents and alumni. We are also a community that is warm, welcoming
and engaging, with our values of Care, Dedication, Curiosity and Integrity embedded
throughout. We offer an excellent package to staff, from generous fee remission for staff
children, to assistance programmes, private medical insurance and well supported CPD.
Greece is also a beautiful and wonderful place to live!

As a Teaching Assistant at St. Catherine’s British School, you will play a vital role in
supporting the learning, well-being, and development of our pupils. Working closely with
class teachers and other staff, you will help create a positive, nurturing, and stimulating
learning environment where every child can thrive. With flexibility, enthusiasm, and
attention to detail, you will assist in classroom activities, provide individual and group
support, help prepare learning materials, and contribute to the social and emotional
growth of students across the school.

I am excited by the opportunity to take St. Catherine's forward, and I would love for you to
join me on this journey.

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

About St. Catherine's British School
About Us

Our Purpose

St. Catherine's British School has approximately
1,400 students aged 3 to 18, situated in
Lykovrissi, near the vibrant area of Kifissia and
just a short ride from the historic centre of
Athens.

Working in partnership with families, we empower
young people to understand, care, and create a
better future, delivering a high-quality British
education that equips students for global
success.

The School has a workforce of around 350
Teaching and Support Staff. As one of the few
British Schools Overseas (BSO) accredited
schools in Greece, we uphold the highest
international standards whilst also maintaining
our British Heritage.

is an ambitious, high-quality
The school
environment, as well as being a warm and
inclusive community. Our modern facilities,
including an impressive new Upper School
campus, offer inspiring spaces that enhance the
learning experience.

We are proud to be an IBO World School,
teaching the EYFS curriculum, IGCSEs, and the
(IB) Diploma
Baccalaureate
International
Programme.

Our Values

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

We champion them every day and they are
embedded throughout our community.

Our public exam results are outstanding, and we
also place great importance on student and staff
wellbeing, outdoor experiences (the Duke of
Edinburgh International Award), sports, music
and the performing arts.

The parents are supportive and engaged and we
are fortunate to have an impressive board of
governors to support and guide us.

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

IB & GCSE RESULTS

St Catherine’s flourishing IB Diploma programme each year sends over 90 graduates to
many of the world’s leading institutions.

In May 2024, 97% of the cohort passed the Diploma with an average grade of 36 points,
with 26% of the students securing 40 points or more. They secured places at Cambridge,
Oxford, Yale, Columbia, Imperial, King’s, UCL, Brown, Edinburgh, Tufts, McGill, Trinity
College Dublin and Bocconi universities, amongst others. Half of the graduates will study in
the UK, a quarter in North America and the remainder entering institutions across the
European Union.

In 2024, the average GCSE grade was 6.78 (just below and A grade in 'old money') with
streamlined academic programmes throughout
the school supported by innovative
technology.

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

OUTDOOR EDUCATION

Outdoor education complements traditional academic learning by offering hands-on experiences that
make learning more engaging and relevant. It involves activities that help students develop personal
and social skills, environmental awareness, and a sense of adventure through outdoor experiences like
hiking, camping, and team-building exercises. The goal is to engage students in real-world learning by
fostering a connection with nature, enhancing physical activity, and encouraging problem-solving and
critical thinking outside the classroom.

The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, which has been running worldwide since 1956, is a
prestigious and highly-prized,
internationally-renowned programme which enables participants’
development through a series of self-directed Skill, Physical Recreation and Voluntary Service
activities and an overnight expedition.

Participants are required to engage in activities in each of these areas, pushing their limits and
broadening their horizons. By completing these challenges, young people not only enhance their
personal development but also gain a sense of achievement and self-confidence that lasts a lifetime.

Our students enjoy taking part and it’s always exciting to see their personal development as they
progress through the Bronze, Silver and Gold levels of the Award.

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

SPORTS

St. Catherine's British School is well-known for its robust sports
program, emphasizing both participation and excellence in various
athletic disciplines.

The school participates actively in a wide array of international
competitions, including prestigious events like the World School
games (held each year in Dubai) and the Council of British
International Schools (COBIS) games. The latter
tournament
gathers students from British schools across the globe, offering
them the chance to compete in sports such as athletics, swimming,
and football at renowned venues like the Olympic Stadium and
Aquatic Centre in Athens. St. Catherine's often sends teams to
these games, promoting sportsmanship and teamwork among its
students.

The school's sports curriculum also includes regular interschool
matches and participation in local Greek competitions. These
events cover multiple sports categories such as tennis, basketball,
football, and volleyball, giving students numerous opportunities to
compete at both junior and senior levels.

With excellent facilities and a commitment to holistic development,
St. Catherine's fosters a strong culture of physical education,
preparing students not only for
local events but also for
international sports tournaments.

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

MUSIC

St Catherine's British School boasts a vibrant and dynamic Music Department that provides
students with a wide range of opportunities to develop their musical talents.

The school offers instrumental lessons in nearly any instrument of choice, and students can
take part in graded music examinations. There is also the option to take part in speech and
drama exams through the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA), adding a
unique element of performance to their musical education.

Music is integrated into both the curriculum and extracurricular activities, giving students
opportunities to perform in ensembles, orchestras, and school productions. Regular concerts,
performances, and musical events take place, showcasing the students' talents in front of the
school community.

The School emphasizes not only musical excellence but also personal growth through the arts,
aligning with the school's broader mission to cultivate well-rounded global citizens. These
offerings make St Catherine's a nurturing environment for students to explore and enhance
their musical skills while enjoying a holistic educational experience.

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

DRAMA

St. Catherine’s Upper School Theatre Department boasts 2 state-of-the-art Black boxes,
designed with all the necessary Theatrical equipment to be able to run successful weekly KS3
Drama lessons, GCSE Drama classes and IB Theatre as well. With regular use of our trailblazing
school’s theatre, the Theatre Department also caters for the high numbers of students who love
performing and working backstage. With Drama Clubs running most lunchtimes, we produce
two productions every year, one KS3 play and one KS4/IB play.

Our plays vary in content and style, our recent productions include Shakespeare’s ‘’A
Midsummer’s Night Dream’’, ‘’The Addams Family’’, Priestley’s ‘’An Inspector Calls’’ and many
more. Our performances do not stop there, IB and GCSE students also regularly showcase their
work in the Black Boxes, which are perfectly suitable for more intimate and modern
performances.

St. Catherine's British School in Athens offers students the opportunity to participate in LAMDA
(London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) exams, a prestigious qualification in the arts,
which enhances their confidence in performance, public speaking, and drama. These exams
help develop communication and acting skills in students from a young age, encouraging both
creativity and poise.

Throughout the school year, St. Catherine's students take part in numerous performances,
including plays, musicals, and recitals, showcasing their talents. These events not only enrich
the students' school experience but also allow them to connect with wider audiences, including
parents and the local community. By nurturing their dramatic and musical abilities, the school
fosters a strong appreciation for the arts, contributing to the students' holistic development.

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

Working at St.
Catherines

“Having worked as a KS2 classroom teacher at
St Catherine's since 2004, I very much feel part
of the community here and I believe that our
school has something special. As a British
citizen with a Greek family, I connect with the
school's rich multicultural identity and friendly
vibe, and I can't envisage working anywhere
else. The weather, landscape, food and rich
cultural heritage are many of the reasons which
led me to Athens, but the people are the reason
I'm staying.. ”

Katherine, Class Teacher, Lower School

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

Athens, Greece

Living in Greece offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich
history, and a Mediterranean lifestyle. Athens is a city where ancient
ruins meet modern cafés, providing a dynamic and culturally rich
environment. Enjoy sun-filled days, beautiful islands a short ferry ride
away, and the famous Greek hospitality. The cost of
living is
affordable, and the quality of life is high, making Greece an ideal place
to live, explore, and experience a true work-life balance.

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

Getting to St. Catherine’s British School

• By car – the school offers free parking

a) 35mins from the Airport
b) 40mins from the Centre of Athens

(Acropolis)

c) 40mins form Piraeus

• By train – walking distance from Kifissia and

Marousi stations
a) 60mins from the Airport
b) 55mins from Centre of Athens (Acropolis)
c) 55mins from Piraeus

St. Catherine's British School places us at the
heart of a quiet residential area, while still being
close to the bustling centre of Kifissia. There are
a lot of green spaces around, shopping centres
and food markets.

The centre of Athens is just a quick ride away,
either by car or train. Public transport is very
widely used, with a small monthly fee.

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

Job overview

St. Catherine’s is seeking a caring, adaptable, and committed Teaching Assistant to
support the learning, well-being, and development of pupils in primary years. The ideal
candidate will bring energy, flexibility, and a genuine enthusiasm for working with
children, helping to create a positive and nurturing learning environment
in
collaboration with class teachers and colleagues. You will assist with classroom
activities, support individual and group learning, and contribute to the social and
emotional growth of every pupil in your care.

We are looking for a team player with strong interpersonal and organisational skills, a
proactive approach, and a passion for helping children achieve their best. The
Teaching Assistant will work closely with the Head of Lower School, class teachers,
and other staff to ensure that each child is supported in their academic progress and
overall well-being. This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful
contribution to the life of the school while gaining valuable experience in a dynamic
and supportive educational setting.

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

Headteacher

Head of Lower
School

Deputy Head
of Lower
School

Primary
Classroom
Teacher

Teaching
Assistant

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

Job Description

Main responsibilities

• Supporting the creation of a positive and nurturing learning environment that recognises and responds to the needs of each individual child.

• Assist in the educational and social development of pupils under the direction and guidance of the Head of Lower School, SENCO, and class

teachers.

• Working with small groups of children on teacher-directed activities.

•

•

•

•

To be familiar with the school curriculum and the age-related expectations of pupils.

To understand the aims, content, teaching strategies and outcomes for lessons.

To adopt a range of strategies, in line with the schools’ policy and procedures, to establish a purposeful learning environment and to promote
good behaviour.

To have high expectations of all pupils; respect their social, cultural, linguistic, religious and ethnic backgrounds, and be committed to raising
their educational achievement.

• Working within a framework set by the teacher, to plan your role in lessons including how to provide feedback to pupils and colleagues on

pupils’ learning and behaviour.

•

•

•

To support teachers in evaluating pupils’ progress through a range of assessment activities.

To monitor pupils’ responses to learning tasks and modify your approach accordingly.

Listening to readers and writing feedback in pupil’s reading record books.

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

Job Description (con’d.)

Main responsibilities (con’d.)

• Building positive relationships with the children, parents and staff and following the school of code of conduct.

• Promote the school’s golden rules and behavioural systems.

• Provide support for individual students inside and outside the classroom to enable them to fully participate in activities.

• Support students with emotional or behavioural issues and help develop their social skills.

• Attend meetings as required.

Administrative duties

• Assist the teacher with the preparation of resources for the class.

• Helping to create a bright and stimulating classroom, where displays reflect different areas of the curriculum and are changed each half term.

• Support class teachers and teaching in photocopying and other tasks.

• Undertake responsibilities as directed by Class Teacher.

Welfare and Safety

• Supervision of outdoor play and other supervisory duties.

•

Teaching Assistants can opt to run a school club.

• Monitoring groups of children and ensuring their safety on off-site activities, such as travelling to the Upper School and on school trips.

• Be proactive in matters relating to health and safety attending to children involved in minor accidents or incidents.

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

Job Description (con’d.)

Professional Conduct requirements

• Support the aims policies and ethos of the school.

• Participate in the development and maintenance of home/school links.

• Set a good example in terms of dress, punctuality and attendance.

• Follow the school code of conduct and promote the ethos of the school.

• Attend team and staff meetings where appropriate.

• Undertake professional duties and training that may be reasonably assigned by the Head of Learning Support.

• Ensure key policies are read and followed.

•

To improve own practice, including through observation, evaluation, and discussion with colleagues.

• Have an understanding of the policies in school and input into their effective practice.

• Understand your safeguarding responsibilities and complete all statutory training and updating of knowledge.

While the above includes a description of the essential functions of the position, other duties may be assigned by the Deputy Head of Lower
School and the Head of Lower School as appropriate

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

www.stcatherines.gr

St. Cat's Life & Benefits

Fee Remission
(for two children)

Discounted
Lunches

Employee Assistance
Programme (EAP)

Free Parking

Private Healthcare
for your family

Private
Pension

Professional
Development

Relocation Support
(if applicable)

Sports Facilities

Prepaid Card
for Groceries

Visa Support
(if applicable)

Work–Life Balance

Care | Dedication | Integrity | Curiosity

© Whole staff photo Sept 2024

www.stcatherines.gr

Application

Candidates will be invited to
interview and
attend a formal
have a tour of the school. We
the
reserve the right
candidates
the
deadline. We
submission
therefore actively encourage
early applications.

to call

before

Closing date
Midday
21st November 2025

Application Form
Click here to download the
application form

St. Catherine’s British School is committed
to the welfare and safeguarding of children.
The successful applicant will be required to
apply for an International Child Protection
Certificate if they are a non-local hire. Local
hires are required to complete a Greek
criminal record check.

St. Catherine's British School
Leof. Sofokli Venizelou 77, Lykovrissi, 14123
Kontogianni & Antonopoulou 9, Kifisia, 14561