At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teachers and assist students with special needs in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Hillside, a Special School & College dedicated to children and young adults with autism.
- Benefits: Term-time only work, competitive salary, free health services, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Level 2 qualifications in English and Maths preferred; experience with special needs is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 16737 - 16737 £ per year.
Hillside is a Special School & College for children and young adults with autism. We have 117 students ranging from age 4 to 18 years on roll. We encourage a happy and professional culture and seek highly energetic and motivated staff who embrace challenge. We believe in the uniqueness of every student and offer a personalised approach to teaching.
School support staff have the advantage of working term time only with salary paid over 12 equal months – perfect for parents of school age children or if you enjoy extended summer travels. We have 3 permanent vacancies for start from 01/09/2026. There is also a vacancy for a temporary TA1 to cover a period of maternity leave. Calculating term time only and just 27.5 hours per week, the actual starting salary is £16,737. The working pattern is usually Monday to Friday 9:30 to 15:30, however this may be adjusted up to a half hour earlier if needed.
What you can expect from us:
- The chance to work with our wonderful individual children and young adults.
- An opportunity to work towards higher qualifications to assist your progression. Hillside works alongside Nelson & Colne College, who visit Hillside to provide tuition support if you wish to follow a Level 3 qualification whilst you work.
- Annual programme of in-house training to help cement your knowledge. NB. all Hillside support staff have 5 paid training days each academic year.
- Hillside staff have the benefit of free membership to the School's health and wellbeing services which include Wellbeing clinics, Nurse support services, GP phone & video consultations, Counselling and Physio programmes if there is a medical need.
- To work alongside staff whose professional support is sought by Lancashire mainstream schools.
What we expect from you:
- A positive attitude to work within a dedicated class team.
- Under the supervision of the class team you will be expected to assist the pupils and support the Teacher during the school day.
- To abide by the Code of conduct.
Desirable Qualifications:
- Level 2 or equivalent qualification in English/Literacy.
- Level 2 or equivalent qualification in Mathematics/Numeracy.
- Experience of working with or caring for children/young people with special needs.
- Experience of working with children from 4 – 18 years.
In line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025 an online search will be carried out as part of our due diligence on shortlisted candidates.
Ribchester Road, Longridge, Preston, Lancashire, PR3 3XB
Teaching Assistant Level 1 Permanent Closing date 13/08/2026 in Longridge employer: Hillside
Hillside is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and professional environment for staff dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children and young adults with autism. With term-time only hours, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development through partnerships with local colleges, employees can enjoy a fulfilling career while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Our commitment to staff wellbeing, including free health services and comprehensive training, makes Hillside a truly rewarding place to work.
