Teaching Assistant Level 3

Teaching Vacancies; Smith's Wood; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

An educational organization is seeking a dedicated Teaching Assistant Level 3 to support autistic pupils at The Heights Academy. The role involves engaging with students, providing creative and effective assistance, and contributing to their overall development. The ideal candidate is qualified to NVQ Level 3 or equivalent with experience in SEND settings. Benefits include professional development opportunities, pension contributions, and access to mental health support resources.

Benefits

Teacher Pension or Local Government Pension

Health Cash Plan

Professional development opportunities

Employee Assistance Programme

Flexible working options

Qualifications

• Experience working with children in KS2, KS3, or KS4.
• Experience in SEND settings and working with children with Autism.

Responsibilities

• Support and inspire autistic learners.
• Promote positive engagement and development for pupils.

Skills

Creative skills

Engagement with autistic learners

Interpersonal skills

Education

NVQ Level 3 for Teaching Assistants or equivalent

Job description

Teaching Assistant Level 3 – Grade E plus SEN Allowance

The Heights Academy, Auckland Drive, Solihull, B36 0DD; 32.5 Hours Per Week, Permanent, Term Time Only (39 Weeks Per Year). Start Date – ASAP.

About the Trust

Forward Education Trust is an established MAT of six special schools based in the West Midlands, covering areas in Sandwell, Birmingham and Solihull.

About the School

The Heights Academy opened in September 2023 in a brand‑new build, and this is a unique and exciting opportunity to be part of the next stage of the journey of growth and development. Initially we are open to pupils in Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3, but over time we will grow to cater for 116 pupils across Key Stage 2, 3 and 4. All of our pupils have an EHCP with a diagnosis of Autism.

What we are looking for

We are looking for highly effective, creative and inspirational Teaching Assistants who will be able to enthuse and engage our autistic learners and support them to develop and reach their potential.

Qualifications & Experience

• Previous teaching experience and skills of working with children in KS2, KS3 or KS4.
• Previous experience of working with children in SEND settings.
• Previous experience of working with children with Autism.
• All applications must be qualified to NVQ Level 3 for Teaching Assistants or equivalent and be able to evidence this.

What we can offer you

• A commitment to support you in developing new skills through a wide range of professional development opportunities and experiences.
• The opportunity to make a huge contribution to the education and lives of children who respond very positively to high quality teaching and support.
• A friendly and inclusive working environment.

What the school offers its staff

• Teacher Pension or Support Staff Local Government Pension – Employer Contribution.
• FET HUB – information all in one place, access to a range of benefits.
• Paid for Health Cash Plan – employee and dependent children benefit – option to add partner.
• Employee Questionnaire – Consultation with staff on a range of issues and ideas.
• Salary sacrifice scheme – Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Access to the NHS approved Thrive App – to support mental health & well‑being.
• Comprehensive induction and probation support and an ongoing performance management & appraisal system.
• Easy purchase scheme (salary deduction) – Smart Tech in association with Currys.
• Enhanced Employee Assistance Programme – free, totally confidential advice, with face‑to‑face consultations.
• Personal & professional learning & development – including FLICK online learning and other resources.
• Access to discounts and offers from Reward Gateway and My Perks.
• Occupational Health Service – accessible to support the needs of individual staff.
• Staff recognition – e‑cards to celebrate success among colleagues.
• Mental Health First Aiders.
• Policies being developed to support positive health & well‑being: Family Friendly Working, Special Leave of Absence, Flexible Working, Menopause.

Why we need you

• Your considerable skill as an outstanding Teaching Assistant who has experience of working with children with special needs.
• Your commitment to engaging and inspiring our pupils, and the ability to make a real difference to their learning and general well‑being.
• Your flexibility, commitment, and excellent interpersonal skills.

Closing Information

Closing date: 11th January 2026. Interview date: 12th January 2026.

To request an application pack, please contact
[e-mail].

Only fully completed Forward Education Trust Application forms will be accepted; CVs will not be read or accepted in place of an application form.

Applicants who do not hear from the school within 14 days of the closing date should assume their application has not been shortlisted. Selected candidates will be required to have an enhanced DBS check and other relevant pre‑employment checks.

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.

This post is covered by Part 7 of the Immigration Act (2016) and therefore the ability to speak fluent spoken English is an essential requirement for this role.

Forward Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. The successful candidate must promote this ethos and be subject to all necessary pre‑employment checks, including enhanced DBS, prohibition check, childcare disqualification, medical fitness, identity and right‑to‑work and references.