Teaching Assistant - Sixth Form

Portfield School’s Sixth Form in Christchurch, is rapidly growing and making a real difference as it supports an inspiring group of students with autism and additional needs on their journey into adulthood. We are loking for a Full Time Teaching Assistant to join our specialist team. We provide a dynamic and personalised approach to education, tailored to empower young people aged 15 to 19 to develop new skills, build confidence and achieve their individual goals. ​ You’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference through individualised support, helping students to build confidence, develop their communication, independence and everyday life skills. If you want to be part of a team where small steps can make a big difference, we would love to hear from you. Apply today by completing our application form. Apply now by completing the application form. In line with our safeguarding commitment, we are unable to progress any application with only a CV. ​ Please note: Autism Unlimited does not provide visa sponsorship. ​ The role You’ll become part of a small, specialist classroom team, supporting three students with complex needs. You’ll help create a safe, supportive and engaging learning environment where each student feels valued and encouraged to progress at their own pace. Our focus is preparing students for adulthood through a personalised, ASDAN informed curriculum that reflects our student’s individual needs, abilities and aspirations. As a Teaching Assistant, you’ll help bring this learning to life through everyday activities, community experiences and opportunities to develop our student’s skills and confidence needed for greater independence. Learning at Portfield is hands-on and purposeful. From cooking and everyday living skills, to creative activities and community experiences, you’ll help students learn in ways that are engaging, relevant and meaningful to them. This role would suit someone who is patient, adaptable, compassionate and enthusiastic about supporting student’s with complex needs. You do not need to have all the answers, but you should be committed to understanding each student as an individual and helping them achieve their potential. We love celebrating all the amazing achievements, whether a student masters a new skill, prepares a meal independently, performs on stage or tackles a challenging problem, you’ll be there to encourage them, recognise their progress and help them take their next step. ​ Hours of work - 37 hours (Term time) Monday - 08:30am - 4pm Tuesday - 08:30am - 4:30pm Wednesday - 08:30am - 4pm Thursday - 08:30am - 4pm Friday - 08:30am - 3:30pm ​ To be successful as a Teaching Assistant, we are looking for someone who: * Can easily adapt themselves in different situations * Has a fun and supportive nature * Doesn’t hesitate to play and get messy * Displays a calm approach, even when under pressure * Will support with personal care such as nappies and toilet training * Can participate in any exercise and activities required * Will use their initiative where needed ​ Why join us? See how we take care of our team- explore our great benefits ​online! ​ ​Hear from our team! ​ Apply now: If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you. To apply it couldn’t be simpler - just ‘apply’ to complete the application process. Should you need any assistance please give us a call on (phone number removed). ​ Due to safer recruitment checks we will request references prior to interview. Please inform us if you do not want us to request a reference from your current employer. To be considered you must complete our application form. ​ ​ Carly would be happy to help! ​ Closing date: Wednesday 4th November 2026 Interviews: Week commencing 9th November 2026 ​ ​ Our Commitment We welcome applications from everyone and value diversity in our workforce. We ​will ​ensure ​that ​all our recruitment and ​selection ​practices ​reflect this. Anyone with any form of disability will be provided with reasonable adjustments in order to participate in the job application or interview process. As part of our commitment to providing reasonable adjustments, please let us know if you require support to complete your application. ​Autism Unlimited is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to hiring a diverse workforce. Any vacancy we have will be filled based on qualifications and best fit without any reference to race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability, age, religion or any other classification protected by law. All successful candidates will ​be ​subject to disclosure and barring checks along with other relevant employment checks