Teaching Assistant

As a Teaching Assistant, you'll play a vital role in helping pupils overcome barriers to learning, build confidence and achieve things they never thought possible. This is far more than a classroom support role. You'll be a mentor, role model and trusted adult, providing the encouragement, structure and guidance that helps young people thrive both academically and personally. Working alongside experienced teachers and a supportive wider team, you'll help create a positive, engaging learning environment where every pupil feels valued, understood and able to succeed. No two days are the same, but every day offers the chance to make a genuine difference in a young person's life. What you will be doing

• Supporting pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups to access learning and reach their potential
• Building positive, trusting relationships that help pupils feel safe, confident and engaged
• Working alongside teachers to deliver creative and engaging learning activities
• Encouraging independence, resilience and social development
• Supporting emotional wellbeing and promoting positive behaviour strategies
• Creating a calm, nurturing and inclusive learning environment
• Celebrating achievements and helping pupils recognise their own progress
  
  Whether you're an experienced Teaching Assistant or come from a background in education, care, youth work, childcare, coaching or support services, we'd love to hear from you if you're passionate about making a difference.
• GCSE English and Maths (Grade 4/C or above) or equivalent
• Patient, caring and able to build positive relationships with young people
• Resilient, calm and confident when faced with challenges
• Adaptable and creative in your approach to supporting learning
• A strong team player who enjoys working collaboratively
• Passionate about helping children and young people achieve their full potential
• Motivated by making a real and lasting impact every day
• Forest School Leader Level 3 would be desirable
  
  Bower Lodge School is a specialist day school in Dibden, Southampton, for boys and girls aged 4-11 with a diagnosis of autism and complex learning, communication, and sensory needs.
With capacity for 40 pupils, we provide a small, nurturing, and inclusive environment. Our approach is tailored to each child's individual strengths and needs. Through personalised learning and high levels of support, we help pupils thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. At Bower Lodge School, every child is valued, understood, and empowered to reach their full potential. For over 19 years, Options Autism has provided specialist care and education for children, young people, and adults with autism, complex needs, and learning difficulties. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are pioneering innovative, evidence-based approaches that deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes for everyone in our care. We are really proud to say that in 2025, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a 'Great Place to Work' for the sixth year running.

We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the 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.
• Life Assurance
• Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
• "Your Wellbeing Matters" - mental health support and physical health checks
• Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including:
+ 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