Higher Level Teaching and Learning Assistant

The Rise School is an Ofsted-rated 'Good' specialist school for autistic pupils aged 4–18 years. We are looking for a Higher-Level Teaching Assistant to join our dedicated team. This role combines Teaching and Learning Assistant responsibilities with teaching cover across the curriculum, supporting pupils from Year 5/6 through to GCSE. The successful candidate will work flexibly across the school rather than being assigned to a specific class team and will also be expected to support break and lunchtime playground duties. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys variety and can quickly build positive relationships with both students and staff. You will deliver pre-planned lessons, support pupils with autism and co-occurring needs, manage behaviours of distress with understanding and professionalism, and provide clear feedback to teachers following lessons. We are looking for someone with a genuine understanding of autism and specialist education. We value applicants who recognise that a special school is not simply a 'mini mainstream' setting and who can adapt their approach to meet individual needs. You should be calm, resilient, collaborative, understanding that progress and engagement may look different for every learner. Experience in mainstream or specialist settings is welcomed, and secondary experience would be an advantage. Subject specialism is not essential; however, strong basic English, computing, and technology skills are important. Autism knowledge, lived experience, and a willingness to continue learning through ongoing TLA training are all highly valued.