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- Tasks: Lead and develop a new Autism Support Centre, delivering high-quality, inclusive teaching.
- Company: The Downs Primary School and Nursery, part of the Passmores Co-operative Learning Community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, autism-specific training, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to inclusion and growth in a well-resourced setting.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on the lives of children with autism in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Proven primary teaching experience and strong understanding of autism strategies.
The predicted salary is between 31650 - 43607 ÂŁ per year.
About Us
The Passmores Co-operative Learning Community (PCLC) is dedicated to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all pupils. We proudly host primary and secondary enhanced provisions for pupils with autism on behalf of Essex County Council (ECC). Our provisions are central to our commitment to inclusion; guided by an ethos of unconditional positive regard, we ensure every pupil is valued and supported to achieve their full potential. In Autumn 2026, the PCLC will open a second primary Autism Support Centre in West Essex, in collaboration with ECC. This expansion presents an exciting opportunity to strengthen collaboration across the Trust, enabling us to share best practice, grow collective expertise, and further enhance the quality and consistency of provision for pupils with autism.
About the Role
The role is based within our new 10‑place Primary Autism Support Centre at the Downs Primary School, supporting pupils aged 4‑11. We are seeking an exceptional, passionate, and experienced practitioner to develop and lead the new provision at the Downs Primary School. This is a unique opportunity to shape a specialist setting, champion inclusive practice, and make a lasting difference to the lives of pupils with autism. At the heart of this role is a commitment to excellent primary teaching. You will deliver high‑quality, inclusive practice that secures strong academic and social progress, combining quality‑first teaching with carefully planned, bespoke interventions to meet individual needs. This is a unique opportunity to deliver a highly adapted SEND curriculum within a well‑resourced specialist setting. We are looking for a skilled, inclusive and adaptable practitioner, with an understanding of developmental approaches to teaching and learning, with the ability to match provision to a wide range of developmental profiles regardless of chronological age. The role requires strong leadership to develop and guide the ASC team, alongside excellent communication to ensure pupils can access learning and successfully integrate into mainstream classrooms.
Key Responsibilities
- Inspire, lead and develop the ASC team, ensuring high‑quality, consistent practice
- Deliver and model quality‑first, adaptive teaching (whole class, small group and 1:1)
- Plan and deliver individualised, person‑centred programmes within a broad and balanced curriculum
- Align the curriculum in the ASC and teaching practice with the main school, following phonics and maths schemes
- Provide targeted interventions, including pre‑learning and over‑learning, to support academic and social progress
- Work collaboratively with mainstream colleagues to support access, inclusion and integration
- Build strong partnerships with parents and external professionals
- Ensure Section F of EHCPs is delivered effectively; lead annual reviews and reporting
- Oversee assessment and progress monitoring, including use of Neuroinclusive Education Network approaches
- Provide training and professional development to staff to strengthen autism practice
- Lead on safeguarding within the ASC
- Work with the Local Authority on admissions, transitions and consultations, including regular attendance at the Local Authority's monthly autism panel meeting
- Provide written consultation responses and tribunal witness statements when required by LA SEND Operations
What We Are Looking For
- An excellent primary practitioner with a proven track record of strong outcomes
- Strong understanding of autism and the strategies and interventions that support children with autism
- Proven ability to lead and develop a team effectively
- Understanding of, or willingness to develop, EYFS and developmental approaches
- A commitment to promoting inclusion and diversity within the school community
- Strong communication and collaboration skills to support mainstream access
- Evidence of ongoing professional development (interest in, or willingness to undertake, the National Award for SEN Coordination would be welcomed)
We Offer
- A well‑resourced and expanding specialist provision
- High‑quality autism‑specific training and CPD
- Opportunities to contribute to a growing ASC model across the Trust
- A supportive team and strong leadership backing
- A role where you can make a significant impact on children's lives
PCLC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced disclosure through the Disclosure Barring Service.
Head of ASC (Autism Support Centre Primary) at The Downs Primary School and Nursery in Harlow employer: The Downs Primary School and Nursery
Contact Detail:
The Downs Primary School and Nursery Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of ASC (Autism Support Centre Primary) at The Downs Primary School and Nursery in Harlow
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at The Downs Primary School and Nursery. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the school culture and what they really value in a candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how you can showcase your experience with autism support. We want to hear specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles, so have those stories ready!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to ask questions during the interview! This shows your interest and helps us understand if the role is right for you. Think about what you want to know about the ASC team and their approach to inclusion.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our community at PCLC.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of ASC (Autism Support Centre Primary) at The Downs Primary School and Nursery in Harlow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for supporting pupils with autism shine through. We want to see your commitment to inclusive education and how you can make a difference in their lives.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in primary teaching and working with children with autism. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and understanding of developmental approaches.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to explain your ideas and experiences. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at The Downs Primary School.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Downs Primary School and Nursery
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of autism and the specific strategies that support children with autism. Brush up on your knowledge about developmental approaches to teaching and learning, as well as the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team or developed inclusive practices in previous roles. Be ready to discuss how you would inspire and guide the ASC team at The Downs Primary School, ensuring high-quality, consistent practice.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Since strong communication is crucial for this role, think about how you can demonstrate your ability to collaborate with mainstream colleagues and build partnerships with parents and external professionals.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations related to supporting pupils with autism. Prepare to discuss how you would plan and deliver individualised programmes, as well as how you would ensure effective delivery of EHCPs and lead annual reviews.