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- Tasks: Support young people with autism and additional needs in a rewarding educational environment.
- Company: Join a caring team at Stretton Shires School, part of Outcomes First Group.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day work week, competitive salary, and comprehensive wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing your skills and career.
- Qualifications: Compassionate individuals with a passion for education and support needed.
- Other info: Be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to student success and wellbeing.
The predicted salary is between 18600 - 25800 £ per year.
Location: Stretton Shires School, Stretton, Rutland, LE15 7GT
Salary: £22,160.62 per annum (not pro rata)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week | Monday to Friday | 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
Start: March 2026
UK applicants only; this role does not offer sponsorship.
About the Role
Are you ready to make a real difference in the lives of young people? As part of our exciting growth, Stretton Shires School is seeking a passionate Teaching Assistant to join our warm, dedicated, and supportive team. Here, every day brings new opportunities to help pupils develop confidence, independence, and the skills they need to thrive both inside the classroom and beyond.
As a Teaching Assistant, you'll be at the heart of our mission to help every young person achieve their full potential. Your role will be varied, hands-on, and deeply rewarding; no two days are ever the same!
- Provide personalised support in line with each pupil's Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP)
- Help pupils build vital communication, social, and life skills
- Assist teachers in delivering creative, high-quality learning experiences
- Collaborate with teachers, therapists, and families to ensure every child's success
- Create a safe, inclusive, and positive environment where every learner can flourish
- Keep accurate records and contribute to planning and progress reviews
- Support personal care for pupils as required
Who We're Looking For
- Compassionate, patient, and deeply committed to supporting young people with autism and additional needs
- Resilient, proactive, and ready to take on new challenges in a rewarding environment
- Interested in (or experienced with) autism and Special Educational Needs (SEN)
- Ideally experienced in education, care, or support settings, though full training will be provided
- Qualified in English and Maths at Grade C / 4 or above (or equivalent)
- Motivated to make a genuine impact and grow within a supportive team
- Holder of a Full UK Driving Licence
At Stretton Shires School, you'll be part of a collaborative, forward-thinking team that genuinely cares where your wellbeing matters as much as your professional growth. You'll have the opportunity to make a real difference every day, helping pupils thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
About Us
Set in the heart of the Rutland countryside, Stretton Shires School is an independent day and residential school catering for autistic young people, and those with associated needs, offering specialist secondary education for pupils aged 11-18. Established in 2005 as a residential home and school, we are currently growing our day pupil numbers, meaning we constantly need to recruit passionate and dedicated staff to support our growth aspirations.
Our aim for the young people coming to Stretton Shires is quite simple; we want every young person to progress developmentally, educationally, and socially. We want them to develop an understanding of themselves and to experience what success feels like. Through these actions, we can equip every young person with the skills and knowledge they need to go on to succeed.
For over 19 years, Options Autism have provided care and education to pupils, young people, and adults with autism, complex needs, and learning difficulties. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in setting and delivering new approaches that provide measurable outcomes for those in our care.
We are really proud to say that in 2024, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a Great Place to Work for the fifth year running.
Why Join Options Autism?
We put pupil outcomes at the heart of everything we do, so every day you'll know your work is making a meaningful impact. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
Benefits
- Life Assurance
- Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
- Your Wellbeing Matters mental health support and physical health checks
- Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista: Health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits
- Hundreds of UK and international discounts
- Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme
- Critical illness cover
- Family Growth Support including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Locations
Teaching Assistant (Stretton) employer: Outcomes First Group
Contact Detail:
Outcomes First Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant (Stretton)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Stretton Shires School and its values. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips about the school culture and what they look for in a Teaching Assistant.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about real-life examples of how you've supported young people, especially those with autism or additional needs. Be ready to share your experiences and how they align with the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining #teamOFG and making a difference in the lives of young people.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant (Stretton)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with young people shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in their lives, especially those with autism and additional needs.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Mention any previous work in education or support settings, and how it aligns with the role of a Teaching Assistant at Stretton Shires School.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can get back to you as soon as possible. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Outcomes First Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Teaching Assistant and the specific needs of pupils with autism and additional needs. Familiarise yourself with the Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCP) and think about how you can support students in building their communication and life skills.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with young people shine through. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to making a difference in their lives. This will help the interviewers see your genuine interest in the role and the impact you want to have.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of the interview. This could be about the school's approach to supporting pupils with SEN or how they foster a positive environment for both staff and students. It shows you're engaged and serious about the position.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity is key! The school is looking for someone compassionate and patient, so don’t be afraid to show your personality. Be honest about your experiences and what you can bring to the team. Remember, they want to see the real you and how you’ll fit into their supportive environment.