Teaching Assistant - Engineering & Robotics

Job Title: Teaching Assistant – Engineering & Robotics

About OSP

The Oxford Scholars Programme (OSP) is a prestigious summer school designed for high-achieving students aged 14–18 years from around the world. Our mission is to provide an intellectually stimulating academic experience that fosters personal growth, critical thinking, and lifelong skills.

We are seeking a specialist in AI and Computer Science to lead this high-tech course. This role is for an academic who can demystify complex algorithms and inspire students to build, code, and innovate using industry-standard tools like Python.

The Role

As a Teaching Assistant at OSP, you are not just there to observe — you are an active part of the academic experience. Working directly alongside the Course Tutor, you will help bring the subject to life in the classroom and lead from the front during afternoon workshops. You will be the student’s first point of contact for questions, encouragement, and support, and your energy will set the tone for the room.

Module Overview: Engineering & Robotics

The Engineering & Robotics course is one of OSP’s most hands-on, high-energy modules. Across the programme, students explore two interconnected strands — General Engineering and Drone Technology — gaining a broad yet deep understanding of how engineers design the systems that power the modern world.

As the TA, you will support the delivery of both strands. In the mornings, students are introduced to foundational engineering principles spanning mechanical, electrical, civil, aerospace, and robotics disciplines. In the afternoons, the focus shifts to application — with workshops covering drone assembly, soldering, flight controller calibration, and supervised flight practice.

By the end of the programme, students will have moved from engineering theory to building and flying real UAVs — developing technical skill, problem-solving ability, and an appreciation for how cutting-edge technology is designed, tested, and refined.

OSP provides a full course handbook covering approximately 80% of the content, with the remaining 20% shaped by the Tutor’s expertise. As TA, your role is to know the material inside out and be ready to support students through every stage — from understanding the theory to getting their hands dirty in the workshop.

What You Will Own

The Classroom: Work alongside the Course Tutor to support the delivery of morning lectures and afternoon workshops, ensuring sessions run smoothly.
Hands-On Learning: Assist students during project sessions and design challenges, providing guidance, troubleshooting support, and encouragement — helping them bridge theory and practice in real time.
Student Momentum: Circulate the classroom and workshop space to check on progress, answer questions, and keep students on task. You spot who needs a push and who needs support — and act on it without being asked.
The Mentorship Layer: Serve as a mentor and role model, supporting students’ academic and personal development. Lead small group discussions, debriefs, and reflective activities that build confidence, deepen understanding, and foster intellectual curiosity.
An Inclusive Environment: Foster a welcoming, safe, and positive space where every student — regardless of background or ability — feels valued, heard, and motivated to participate.
Session Readiness & Feedback: Familiarise yourself thoroughly with the course handbook and teaching materials before the programme begins, and provide regular feedback to the Tutor and OSP staff on student engagement, progress, and any concerns.
Safeguarding & Wellbeing: Remain vigilant to student welfare at all times, promoting a respectful classroom culture and escalating any concerns promptly in line with OSP’s safeguarding policies.

Compensation

Teaching Support: Approximately 31.5 hours, paid at £25 per hour
Training: Paid induction at £15 per hour (typically 2–3 hours total)
Total estimated compensation: £817.5 – £832.5

Daily Format

Teaching typically follows the below format:

The course runs for 9 teaching days within a 14-day programme.

Candidate Profile

You are a current student with genuine enthusiasm for your subject and a natural ability to connect with people. You thrive in fast-paced environments, take initiative, and understand that the best learning experiences are built on energy, curiosity, and trust.

Essential Criteria

Currently enrolled as an undergraduate or postgraduate student in a relevant discipline
Strong foundational knowledge of the course subject area
Confident communicator, able to engage and explain clearly to mixed-ability, international groups
Proactive and reliable, with the maturity to work under the direction of the Course Tutor

Desirable Criteria

Previous experience working with young people in an educational, mentoring, or leadership capacity
Experience of residential summer schools or similar enrichment programmes
Experience supporting or teaching non-native English-speaking students

Application Process

Complete our online application form and attach a current CV.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an online interview
Successful candidates will undergo an enhanced DBS check and provide right-to-work documentation
Personal data will be handled in accordance with GDPR regulations

Application Deadline: 20th March 2026

(Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis, and the position may be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is found.)

OSP is committed to safeguarding and protecting children. All staff members undergo enhanced DBS checks. Only candidates who are successful in their application will be contacted. This advertisement is inclusive and does not discriminate based on gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability, or sexual orientation. Applicants are evaluated solely on their skills, qualifications, and suitability for the role. Requests for reasonable adjustments—such as accessible documents or interview accommodations—are welcomed and should be shared with the recruitment team.