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Autism College Teaching Assistant – Work Placement Lead
Full-Time | Monday to Friday | 8:30am – 3:45pm (until 4:45pm on Tuesdays for staff training)
Are you passionate about supporting autistic young adults to develop independence, employability skills, and confidence for adult life?
Do you have the confidence to lead small groups of learners in real-world work environments and help them succeed in community-based placements?
We are seeking four exceptional Teaching Assistants to join our specialist Further Education College for young people aged 19–25 with autism and additional learning needs. This is a highly rewarding role for proactive, enthusiastic individuals who can build positive relationships, promote independence, and confidently support learners both on campus and in the wider community.
About the Role
This role is ideal for someone with experience similar to a Job Coach, Senior Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant, or someone who has previously supported young people with SEND in vocational, community, or employment settings.
A significant part of the role involves accompanying and leading groups of learners on external work placements, helping them develop workplace skills, confidence, communication, and independence.
You will work closely with teachers, therapists, job coaches, employers, and families to ensure learners achieve their educational and employment outcomes.
Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support small groups of learners during external work placements and community-based activities.
• Build learners' confidence, independence, and employability skills in real-world settings.
• Support students to develop workplace behaviours, communication skills, and social understanding.
• Provide individual and group support across vocational and life-skills programmes.
• Encourage positive behaviour, emotional regulation, and personal wellbeing.
• Support learners to access local facilities and develop independent travel skills.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, job coaches, therapists, and employers.
• Contribute to learner progress reviews and celebrate achievements.
• Maintain high standards of safeguarding and learner welfare.

We Are Particularly Interested In Candidates With
Experience in any of the following areas would be highly desirable:

• Hospitality
• Café or customer service environments
• Baking or cooking
• Sports, fitness, or coaching
• Music
• Drama or performing arts
• Vocational training
• Supported employment
• Community inclusion programmes

These interests and skills help enrich our learners' vocational experiences and provide valuable opportunities for engagement and development.
What We're Looking For

• Experience supporting young people or adults with autism, SEND, or additional learning needs.
• Confidence leading small groups independently in community settings.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• A calm, positive, and proactive approach.
• Ability to think on your feet and problem-solve effectively.
• Strong teamwork skills and willingness to work collaboratively.
• Commitment to promoting independence, dignity, and person-centred support.
• GCSE English and Maths (or equivalent) desirable.

What We Offer

• A rewarding opportunity to make a genuine difference in young people's lives.
• A supportive and experienced multidisciplinary team.
• Ongoing professional development and specialist autism training.
• Opportunities to develop skills in employability, vocational education, and community-based learning.
• A welcoming and positive working environment where staff are valued and supported.

Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our learners. Successful applicants will be subject to enhanced DBS checks and all relevant pre-employment checks.
Apply Now
If you are an enthusiastic, confident, and caring professional who can inspire young adults and support them to succeed in work and life, we would love to hear from you.
If you’re ready to make a genuine difference and help young people thrive, we’d love to hear from you. Send your CV to [email protected] or call 0204 531 6855 for an informal chat.


We are committed to safeguarding children. Each applicant will be expected to undertake compliance checks including Prohibited list, Barred list, DBS and Qualifications.