Horizons Summer Teaching Assistant in Training

We are delighted that you are interested in joining the Horizons summer staff as a Teaching Assistant in Training (TAIT). This role carries significant responsibility and requires a genuine interest in helping children achieve their fullest potential. TAITs work closely with children in the classroom and as a part of other enrichment experiences serving as positive role models and caring members of our Horizons community. The majority of our staff returns each summer which means there are limited opportunities to hire new instructors. Once we have confirmed returning staff we will offer jobs to new hires.

Please read the information below before you continue with this application.

What is the Horizons Summer Program

Horizons summer program based at New Canaan Country School serves close to 300 children in grades K-9 living primarily in Stamford and Norwalk. This six-week summer program provides academic classes in reading writing and math as well as a wide range of creative and fun enrichment activities like swimming art music and field trips. Each class has ten to twelve students one Lead Teacher and one Teaching Assistant.

When will the Horizons Summer Program start and end

We are planning to hold an in-person orientation on June 18 2026 and June 20 2026 for all staff. The summer program will begin on June 22 2026 and end on July 31 2026.

Can I still work with Horizons if I cant work full-time or the full six weeks

Teaching Assistants must commit to the full six weeks of our program which runs daily from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Because we only have 29 days with our children we need the staff to be a consistent presence in the full program.

What is the role of the Teaching Assistant in Training

Teaching Assistants in Training may be assigned a variety of tasks given detailed instructions to be performed under direct or indirect supervision. The TAIT will support the Lead Teacher and work in partnership with the other classroom TA. TAITs shepherd students to special programs and classes assist with snack and lunch setup and supervise on field trips etc. TAITs are active participants in the afternoon swim program helping students in the pool with instructional and recreational activities. The TAIT is expected to be able to work independently and to arrive on time.

Is there an age and grade requirement

Yes in order to be a teaching assistant in training you must be at least 16 years old and at least a sophomore in High School.

When will I know if I have been accepted

Announcements will be made in late March to early April.

Please reach out to Jennifer Bentley with any questions at .

Recommendation & Parent/Guardian Consent Form

If applying please download the Recommendation Form and ask your recommender to send the completed form to

If you are under 18 your parent/guardian will need to complete the Parent and Guardian Consent Form and send it to

Apply Here

(Do NOT apply through the Apply link at the top right of this page.)