At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver engaging autism training and facilitate sessions for diverse audiences across Hampshire.
- Company: Join a dedicated team making a real difference in autism education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and the chance to impact lives positively.
- Other info: Dynamic role with varied tasks and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Use your expertise to challenge misconceptions and create inclusive experiences for autistic individuals.
- Qualifications: Extensive knowledge of autism and experience in teaching or training required.
Location: North Hampshire / Hampshire-wide travel
Salary: £31,720 per annum pro rata
Hours: 24 hours per week
Contract: Fixed term – 12 months
Closing date: 27 August 2026
Planned interviews: 10 September via Microsoft Teams (subject to any changes)
Make a difference through autism training and education.
Do you have extensive knowledge and understanding of autism? Are you an experienced and passionate trainer who wants to help people understand autism differently? Would you like to join a friendly, experienced and dedicated training team where your knowledge can make a real difference? If so, we would love to hear from you.
We are looking for an Autism Specialist Trainer & Oliver McGowan Lead Facilitator to join our External Training Team. This is an exciting opportunity to use your expertise to improve understanding, challenge misconceptions and help create more inclusive experiences for autistic people.
About the role:
Our External Training Team delivers high-quality autism training to a diverse range of audiences, including health and social care organisations, employers, schools, individuals and families across Hampshire and beyond. As part of this role, you will be a key facilitator for The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism, supporting the delivery of face-to-face sessions for groups of up to 30 delegates across Hampshire. You will work closely with our lived-experience autistic and learning-disabled co-trainers, ensuring that sessions are engaging, accessible, inclusive and meaningful. You will also have the opportunity to develop and deliver specialist autism training, sharing your knowledge and helping individuals and organisations build greater confidence and understanding.
What we're looking for:
- Has extensive knowledge and understanding of autism, including sensory processing, communication and autistic thinking.
- Is an accredited Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training facilitator.
- Has relevant qualifications and experience in autism and teaching/training.
- Has a proven track record of developing learning programmes and delivering engaging training to groups.
- Understands that every autistic person is an individual, with their own strengths, needs, preferences and experiences.
- Believes passionately in the positive contribution and potential of autistic people.
- Can communicate complex information in an accessible, engaging and respectful way.
- Has excellent interpersonal and presentation skills and is confident working with a wide range of audiences.
- Is highly organised and able to maintain accurate records and training documentation.
- Works collaboratively and values the expertise and contribution of lived-experience trainers.
- Brings a flexible, positive and inclusive approach to their work.
A role with variety and purpose:
No two days will be the same. You could be delivering training to health and social care professionals, working with schools and employers, developing learning resources or supporting our Oliver McGowan co-trainers. To ensure we can provide training at times that work for our learners, some evening and weekend sessions will be required. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced autism trainer to join a specialist team and use their knowledge, skills and passion to change understanding, influence practice and improve outcomes for autistic people.
Interested? If you have the specialist knowledge, training experience and passion to make a difference, we would love to hear from you. As part of our commitment to the “Disability Confident Scheme”, candidates who declare a disability, and meet the key criteria for this role, will be given the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities at interview stage.
Locations
Autism Specialist Trainer & Oliver McGowan Lead Facilitator - in Fareham, Hampshire employer: Avenues Group
At Avenues, we pride ourselves on being more than just a workplace; we are a supportive community dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. Located in Birchington, our Assistant Service Manager role offers a unique opportunity to lead with compassion while enjoying flexible working arrangements, high-quality training, and a strong focus on employee development. Join us to inspire your team and contribute to a culture where everyone feels valued and empowered to succeed.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Autism Specialist Trainer & Oliver McGowan Lead Facilitator - in Fareham, Hampshire
✨Get Involved in Local Mental Health Initiatives
We all know that networking in the therapy and counselling field can lead to great opportunities. Look out for local mental health awareness events, workshops, or support groups. These are perfect spots to meet potential employers and other professionals who might help open doors for you.
✨Leverage Online Therapy Platforms
Many temporary counselling roles pop up on platforms like BetterHelp or Talkspace. Make sure your profile is top-notch so when clients or employers are browsing, you'll stand out. Plus, showing engagement in this space can really elevate your visibility!
✨Tap into University Career Services
If you're currently studying or recently graduated, don’t ignore your university's career services. They often have great connections to temporary roles in therapy that aren't advertised widely. Plus, they can help you prepare for those all-important interviews!
✨Check Out Local Agencies and Consultancies
Temporary roles in therapy often get filled through agencies that specialise in healthcare staffing. Make a list of local counselling agencies and reach out – a simple email expressing your interest can go a long way. Remember, most agencies appreciate candidates who proactively seek out opportunities!
We think you need these skills to ace Autism Specialist Trainer & Oliver McGowan Lead Facilitator - in Fareham, Hampshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Practical Experience:When applying for a temporary role in therapy or counselling, we need to see your practical experience front and centre. Include details of any placement experiences, internships, or voluntary work in your CV. Make sure to mention specific techniques or therapies you’re familiar with—this shows your readiness to jump in and make an impact!
Showcase Your Approach:In your cover letter, take a moment to explain your therapeutic approach and what methodologies you’re passionate about. This is your chance to connect your personal style with the values of Avenues Group. Temporary roles often require a quick adjustment; helping them understand your philosophy will assure them you're a good fit!
Be Flexible and Open-Ended:Since this is a temporary position, emphasise your flexibility in your application. Highlight that you're eager to take on varying responsibilities or adapt your style to different clients’ needs. It's a huge plus for potential employers who want someone who can slide effortlessly into their team.
Certifications Matter!:Don’t forget to include any relevant certifications or trainings in your application documents. Specific qualifications like a Diploma in Counselling or any accredited workshops/additional training can set you apart. Ensure these are listed clearly in your CV, as they illustrate your commitment to your professional development and the field itself.
How to prepare for a job interview at Avenues Group
✨Show Your Empathy Skills
In the therapy and counselling field, showcasing your empathy and interpersonal skills is crucial. Prepare to share specific examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated this, whether in volunteer work, internships, or even personal scenarios.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some real-world scenario questions where you might need to outline how you'd handle specific client situations. Practise articulating your thought process and the interventions you would consider using, reflecting your understanding of various therapeutic approaches.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since you're aiming for a temporary role, be prepared to discuss your adaptability. Temporary positions often require quickly building rapport and adjusting to different client needs, so think of examples where you've successfully navigated changes or challenges in a work environment.
✨Prepare Your Personal Philosophy
Having a clear understanding of your therapeutic philosophy can set you apart. Be ready to share how your values and approach align with those of Avenues Group and why you're passionate about making a difference in clients' lives, even in a temporary position.
