Teaching Assistant

Work Smarter. Live Better. Join the 4-Day Working Week!

Job title:

Teacher Assistant

Location:

Bower Lodge School, Dibden, Southampton, SO45 5TD

Salary: £22,160.62 per annum (not pro rata)

Hours:

37.5 hours per week | Monday to Friday | 8:30am – 4:30pm

Contract:

Permanent | Term Time only
Start:
March 2026
UK applicants only; no sponsorship available

At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first. That’s why we’re proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4

DWW) trial, giving you 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay*. Many of our schools have already introduced the 4

DWW, and others will soon join in. So, whether it’s already in place or just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to join #team

OFG!

As a Teaching Assistant, you’ll play a vital role in shaping the everyday experiences of our pupils. This isn’t just classroom support — it’s about sparking curiosity, building trust, and helping every child find their own way to shine. Every day brings the opportunity to make a real difference, whether that’s helping a pupil find their voice, master a new skill, or simply feel safe and understood.

You’ll be part of a compassionate, collaborative team that celebrates every small success and believes in the power of patience, positivity, and connection. Working closely with teachers and therapists, you’ll support pupils’ learning, wellbeing, and personal development — adapting to their individual needs and helping them engage with the world around them. No two days will be the same. You’ll find joy in the small moments, pride in each milestone, and ongoing support from experienced colleagues who share your passion for helping children thrive.

With access to high‑quality training and a nurturing school community built on kindness and teamwork, you’ll have every opportunity to grow alongside our pupils.

We’re seeking someone who is caring, calm, and resilient — someone who brings warmth, patience, and creativity to every interaction.

You will be:

• Confident supporting children and young people with Autism and/or complex needs
• Adaptable across classroom, sensory, and outdoor learning environments
• A strong team player who communicates effectively with colleagues and families
• Eager to learn and develop within a supportive, values-driven school

Essential: GCSEs in English and Maths (or equivalent)
Experience: Working with children with additional needs would be beneficial
Above all, you’ll share our belief that every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and celebrated.

Bower Lodge School is a brand-new 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…