We are proud to be Cambridgeshire’s first state-maintained Autism Specialist school and the world’s first IB special school. Following our Outstanding Ofsted rating in March 2024, we are expanding our provision and are now looking for a passionate, and innovative Teaching Assistant to join our dynamic teaching team.

This is an exciting opportunity to work in a forward-thinking, trauma-informed, and inclusive setting that puts pupil wellbeing at the heart of everything we do. Our pupils are autistic, each with their own strengths and challenges, and our mission — Enabling the Self — is to ensure they leave school confident, self-aware, and ready for the future.

About the Role

As a Teaching Assistant at The Cavendish School, you will play a vital role in supporting the communication and wellbeing of autistic pupils with complex needs by:

• Working alongside the class teacher to deliver engaging, inclusive learning experiences tailored to each pupil’s needs
• Providing individual and small-group support to help pupils access the curriculum and build confidence, communication, and independence
• Supporting pupils with sensory regulation and emotional wellbeing in our purpose-built therapeutic environment, including sensory rooms and regulation spaces
• Helping to prepare learning resources, support classroom routines, and contribute to observations that inform planning and progress tracking
• Modelling and implementing a range of autism-specific strategies in the classroom, in line with our trauma-informed and therapeutic thinking approach
• Working closely with our multidisciplinary team — including therapists, teachers, and leaders
• Contributing to a whole-school culture of reflective, trauma-informed practice rooted in our ethos of “enabling the self”

We are looking for someone who believes that autism is not a limitation, but a different way of thinking and experiencing the world — and who is passionate about enabling each pupil to grow, learn and thrive in a setting that celebrates individuality.

What We’re Looking For

• Someone who is compassionate, proactive, and committed to supporting autistic pupils to succeed academically and emotionally
• Experience working with children or young people, ideally in an educational or specialist setting
• A genuine interest in therapeutic approaches and trauma-informed education
• Strong teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to follow guidance and contribute meaningfully to classroom life
• A calm, flexible, and reflective approach to supporting pupils with diverse needs
• An enthusiasm for contributing to an inclusive, pupil-centred school ethos
• A willingness to learn and grow professionally as part of a supportive and skilled multidisciplinary team

Whether you’re experienced in special education or excited to transition into this rewarding field, we offer additional collaborative planning time, ongoing CPD, and a supportive community where your passion will truly make an impact.

Why Join Us?

• An Outstanding-rated autism specialist school with a pioneering IB curriculum
• A vibrant, therapeutic and supportive school community
• Access to professional development, training, and clinical supervision
• A team of passionate professionals committed to equity and inclusion
• The chance to make a real difference — not just for pupils, but for their families and futures
• A Well-being directory for all staff offering financial supports and to improve wellbeing and work-life balance
• Free school meals are provided for dining with our pupils
• A 50% discount to our trust sports centre membership
• An additional bookable holiday “Eastern Family Day” for you to take when you require
• A modern flexible working school, with the opportunities for home working and reduced hours