How would you like to be paid for five days but only work four*? Our colleagues’ wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do at OFG, so we’re always looking for new ways to improve everyone’s work/life balance. We’re taking part in a trial of the 4-Day Working Week, meaning that you could be working one day less a week (or equivalent). 4DWW will be rolled out within our school, when we have a full complement of staff, and within the next year – so there’s never been a more exciting time to join us #teamOFG! Job Title:
Teaching Assistant Location:
Stretton Shires School, Stretton, Rutland, LE15 7GT Salary:
£20,906.25 per annum (not pro rata) Hours:
37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday 8.30am - 4.30pm Contract:
Permanent, Term Time only UK Applicants only. This role does not offer sponsorship As part of our continued growth, we now have a fantastic opportunity for a Teaching Assistant to join our close-knit, dedicated team at Stretton Shires School. About the role We’re looking for individuals who are passionate about making a real difference in the lives of young people. This is a rewarding role where you will support the development of social, life, and independence skills—both in the classroom and in the wider community—with the ultimate aim of preparing pupils for adulthood. As a Teaching Assistant, you’ll work closely with teachers and other support staff to help students achieve their Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) outcomes. You’ll play a vital part in empowering pupils with the confidence, tools, and skills they need to thrive in school and beyond. Key Responsibilities Provide tailored support to students in line with individual learning needs and EHCPs Help develop students’ communication, social, and life skills through structured activities Assist in delivering high-quality learning both in the classroom and in community settings Promote a positive, inclusive, and safe learning environment Work collaboratively with teaching staff, therapists, and families Maintain accurate records and contribute to planning and progress reviews Who We‘re Looking For You’ll be someone who: Is compassionate, patient, and committed to supporting young people with autism and additional needs Thrives in a challenging yet rewarding educational environment Understands or has an interest in autism and SEN Has relevant experience in an education, care, or support setting (preferred but not essential) Holds English and Maths at Grade C / 4 or above, or equivalent qualifications Is eager to learn, grow and make a genuine impact 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 16 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 place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so you’ll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others. 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 Your health and wellbeing are important to us, so you’ll get an exceptional reward package including: Life Assurance Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions “Your Wellbeing Matters” – access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checks And a market-leading benefit offering through our Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista, enables you to choose the package that’s right for you, including: A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits 100’s of discount options valid in the UK and abroad Cycle to Work Schemes Electric Car Purchase Scheme Critical illness cover Family Growth Support - inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. *You’ll work 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay, giving you more time to do the things that make you happy. 4DWW is subject to successful completion of probation and is not a contractual benefit Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales #1