Teaching AssistantEDV/2026/OQA/20301

About This Role

Work where it matters most, achieve what matters more. Be part of a team where passion meets purpose, as we work together where the challenge is greatest to change the lives and build the futures of children and young people. Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of autistic children? Ormiston Queensmill Academy is seeking a number of dedicated, enthusiastic and resilient Teaching Assistants to join our growing team. This is your opportunity to be part of an exceptional learning community that puts pupils with autism at the heart of everything we do.

As a Teaching Assistant, you will be a vital member of the class team, working alongside teachers and therapists to support the development of autistic pupils. Responsibilities include:

• Support pupils with sensory needs, emotional regulation, and social communication.
• Assist pupils in accessing learning, following instructions, and developing independence.
• Contribute to the preparation of engaging resources and a positive learning environment.
• Provide supervision and support across the school day, including during playtimes, lunchtimes, and off-site activities such as swimming or educational visits.
• Help manage behaviour using positive and autism-informed strategies.
• Support with personal care, hygiene, and medical needs where required (training provided).
• Work as part of a collaborative, warm, and dynamic team that celebrates progress—no matter how small.

The Successful Candidate Will Have:

• GCSEs or equivalent (Grade C or above) in English and Maths.
• Experience working with children, ideally those with autism or additional needs.
• Knowledge of sensory processing, autism strategies, or an interest in developing this.
• Excellent communication skills and a calm, adaptable approach to support.
• A desire to learn, grow, and be part of a high-performing team.

It would be advantageous if you hold or are working towards a Level 2 Supporting Teaching and Learning qualification or are willing to undertake further training.

About Our Academy

Ormiston Queensmill Academy is a well-established autism-specific school dedicated to educating and supporting a diverse cohort of autistic children and young people. Our commitment goes beyond education—we celebrate the unique qualities of our students and focus on fostering their skills in social communication, sensory and emotional regulation to help them flourish in all aspects of life. We also have positions available at our satellite provisions based at Fulham Primary and Sulivan Primary. We pride ourselves on a collaborative, multi-professional approach that includes class staff, in-house school therapists, parents, and external professionals, all working together to provide the highest standard of care and education. We are committed to providing extensive training, ensuring you are equipped to deliver the highest standard of support.

Why work for Ormiston Academies Trust?

Our vision is to create a school system where every child thrives, regardless of background. Our people are at the heart of our approach – they are our greatest asset. We exist to provide the best learning opportunities every day, in every school, for every child. It is the people and teams in our Trust who make this a reality and ensure we have the greatest impact. If you join us at Ormiston, whatever your role, you can be sure of a role with purpose and meaning.

We offer:

• The opportunity to build on the legacy of those who came before – being part of one of the longest standing Trusts, created with the sole purpose of enabling children and young people to thrive.
• Working for a Trust nationally recognised for its impact on disadvantaged children – a rewarding, stimulating career where staff are challenged to be the best they can be, for the pupils we are proud to serve.
• Being part of a team and community where you belong – receiving bespoke and holistic support from a well-resourced and ambitious network of experts and professionals that work at the heart of communities.
• A supportive environment to grow your career – an extensive professional development programme, alongside flexible working arrangements and generous benefits.

Benefits:

• A collaborative space where people feel respected, valued, and truly appreciated.
• A nationwide school network offering shared resources and opportunities.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Automatic pay progression.
• Generous pension and life cover.
• Discounts on retail, travel and leisure through our benefits platform.
• Access to discounts including the Blue Light Card.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Access to health and well-being programmes, including counselling service.

This is an incredible opportunity for a Teaching Assistant to make a difference and join a great team of people within a supportive and values-led organisation. For further details please see the attached Job Description and if you have any questions regarding the role please contact Neeta Singh, Deputy Head by emailing neeta.singh@oqma.co.uk. To apply for the role please submit an application form via the link above by 9am on Monday, 18th May 2026. Please note that CVs will not be accepted.

Ormiston Queensmill Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. Ormiston Academies Trust embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. Flexible working opportunities will be considered. All successful appointments will be subject to suitability checks in accordance with KCSIE, including identity, Right to Work, qualifications, online searches, prohibition check, two references and enhanced DBS check including Children’s Barred List. The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974. Guidance on the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the Exceptions Order 1975, which provides information about which convictions must be declared during job applications and related exceptions, can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/new-guidance-on-the-rehabilitation-of-offenders-act-1974. All of our academy policies can be found at: policies.