Teaching Assistant

About the school

Groveside School is a special educational needs school for pupils aged 7 to 16 with social, emotional and mental health needs. The school opened in September 2024 and will cater for 60 pupils. It forms part of Acorn Education and the Outcomes First Group, which delivers specialist education using innovative, evidence-based approaches.

The role

Groveside School is seeking a dedicated, compassionate and proactive Teaching Assistant to join its specialist education team. The successful candidate will support young people with autism, helping them to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. The position is permanent, term-time only, 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with a salary of £22,160.62 per annum. The role commences in September 2026.

Working closely with class teachers, tutors and the multi-professional team, the Teaching Assistant will help create a safe, stimulating and supportive learning environment where every student can achieve their full potential. The role suits someone who is patient, resilient and committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people with autistic spectrum disorder.

Key responsibilities

• Support class teachers and tutors in delivering high-quality education, implementing relevant policies and creating a structured, autism-appropriate learning environment.
• Provide individual and group support to students to help them access the curriculum and progress socially, emotionally and academically.
• Assist with planning, risk assessments and the creation, updating and evaluation of student documentation including IEPs, BSPs, risk assessments and communication profiles.
• Help manage challenging behaviour using consistent strategies that promote students’ development from external control to self-control.
• Contribute to the preparation of teaching resources, classroom organisation and the effective use and maintenance of equipment and learning materials.
• Work collaboratively with teaching, care and multi-professional teams to maintain strong communication between school, home and other departments.
• Support students with morning routines and personal care where required, ensuring their safety, wellbeing and safeguarding at all times.
• Maintain accurate records, follow all safeguarding, behaviour and health and safety policies, and engage in ongoing training and professional development.

Requirements

• Experience working with young people or adults with autism is desirable but not essential.
• A calm, patient and empathetic approach.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to learn, adapt and participate in ongoing professional development.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students.

Benefits and package

• Life assurance.
• Pension scheme with options to increase contributions.
• Mental health support and physical health checks through the “Your Wellbeing Matters” programme.
• Flexible Benefits Platform including health, wellbeing and insurance benefits, plus hundreds of UK and international discounts.
• Cycle to Work Scheme and Electric Car Purchase Scheme.
• Critical illness cover.
• Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity and paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support.
• Strong induction programme and ongoing professional development opportunities within a supportive environment.

How to apply

Candidates can apply via TheTeacherJob or request the school contact after signing in.