Sen Teaching Assistant at Autism Unlimited, Burton, Dorset

As more students join the Portfield School community, we're creating exciting opportunities for new Teaching Assistants to become part of our team. We're looking for enthusiastic, caring individuals who want to play a hands-on role in helping young people learn, grow and thrive.

No previous experience? No problem. We believe the right attitude and passion matter most. That is why we have developed a comprehensive 12-week training programme, to help provide you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence you would need to excel in your new role and build a rewarding career in specialist education.

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Please note: Autism Unlimited does not provide visa sponsorship. 

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To be considered for this role, you will be required to complete an application form as part of our safer recruitment process.

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The role

Our Teaching Assistants play a vital role in building positive, trusting relationships with students, taking the time to understand their individual interests, preferences and learning styles. This enables them to tailor their approach and create personalised learning experiences that help every student thrive.

No two days at Portfield School are ever the same. The role is unbelievably rewarding and can be both physically and emotionally demanding at times, however you will never be alone! Ongoing support will always be available from your team members, line manager, Leadership team, Mental Health First aiders or our Employee Assistance programme.

We love celebrating all the amazing achievements, big or small. Whether it’s painting a picture, trying a new food, solving a tricky maths equation or a short conversation with someone new, every milestone matters. That feel good factor is pat of what makes our school so special.

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Hours - 37 per week

Monday - 08:30am - 4pm

Tuesday - 08:30am - 4:30pm

Wednesday - 08:30am - 4pm

Thursday - 08:30am - 4pm

Friday - 08:30am - 3:30pm

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To be successful as a Teaching Assistant, we are looking for someone who:

• Can easily adapt themselves in different situations
• Has a fun and supportive nature
• Doesn’t hesitate to play and get messy
• Displays a calm approach, even when under pressure
• Will support with personal care such as nappies and toilet training
• Can participate in any exercise and activities required
• Will use their initiative where needed

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Why join us?

See how we take care of our team- explore our great benefits ​online!

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Apply now:

If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you. To apply it couldn’t be simpler - just ‘apply’ to

complete the application process. Should you need any assistance please give us a call on (phone number removed).

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Due to safer recruitment checks we will request references prior to interview. Please inform us if you do not want us to request a reference from your current employer. To be considered you must complete our application form.

Closing date: Sunday 22nd November 2026

Interviews: Week commencing 30th November 2026

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Our Commitment

We welcome applications from everyone and value diversity in our workforce. We ​will ​ensure ​that ​all our recruitment and ​selection ​practices ​reflect this.  Anyone with any form of disability will be provided with reasonable adjustments in order to participate in the job application or interview process. As part of our commitment to providing reasonable adjustments, please let us know if you require support to complete your application.  

​Autism Unlimited is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to hiring a diverse workforce. Any vacancy we have will be filled based on qualifications and best fit without any reference to race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability, age, religion or any other classification protected by law.

All successful candidates will ​be ​subject to disclosure and barring checks along with other relevant employment checks.