Teaching Assistant

Why join Horizons Academy? 

Horizons Academy is a brand new, state of the art special school which opened in January 2026, to meet the needs of children and young people from Key Stages 2 to 5 with social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH), along with autism spectrum conditions (ASC). We are seeking highly motivated and dedicated Teaching Assistants to join us at this exciting time to be part of our talented and supportive team from day one!  

The academy has capacity to accommodate 160 pupils aged 7 to 19 with class sizes of approximately 8 students.

Our vision is rooted in our firm belief that every child, regardless of individual need or ability, deserves an education that fosters inclusivity, meaningful engagement, and academic excellence. In meeting the wide-ranging specific needs of all learners, our curriculum will be aspirational, including a broad range of experiences but structured in such a way that it is accessible and can be tailored to the needs of every child. Ultimately, our vision is that every child and young person who learns within the walls of Horizons Academy will leave prepared for adulthood and can go on to be whoever they want to be and to achieve more than they could have ever imagined.  

Visits are welcomed and encouraged - please contact [email protected] to arrange, or for further information.

The opportunity 

We are looking for a Teaching Assistant who has a passion for supporting children and young people with complex needs in a specialist setting or with SEND experience.  The safeguarding of pupils with SEMH needs is essential along with creating a secure and nurturing environment so that children attend every day possible.

You will work alongside the Principal, Senior Leaders and Teachers to ensure that every child experiences a positive and enriching educational experience and are well prepared and equipped for their future.  

We are seeking people who are empathetic, professional and warm; someone who can be flexible and embrace a challenge.  

Essential:

• Display commitment to protection and safeguarding of children and young people  

• Have working knowledge of working with students with SEMH and Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) and a high level of competence in communication and interpersonal skills. 

• Have the resolve to make a real difference to the lives of children.  

• Be able to communicate effectively with parents and other professionals.

Desirable:

• Work constructively as part of a team, understanding classroom roles and responsibilities and own position within these. 

• Work within a wider team to ensure the best quality education and support is provided for the children and young people attending Horizons Academy.

• Be qualified in a relevant childcare qualification to at least NNEB, NVQ3 (or equivalent), and previous experience of working within SEN is desirable. 

Should you have any initial questions please email [email protected]

Our employee benefits   

At Diverse Academies, you’ll find yourself in a vibrant, inclusive and supportive environment, where everyone can grow, progress and achieve a fulfilling career. We offer a fantastic range of rewards and benefits, challenging and interesting work, and opportunities to achieve your potential.   

 In return you will benefit from:            

• Enrolment into the Local Government Pension Scheme with an employer contribution of at least 21.8% 

• Excellent Continuous Professional Development (CPD) opportunities covering technical, leadership and coaching skills via the trust’s Diverse Association for Professional Learning 

• Employee Assistance Programme  

• GP helpline  

• Health and wellbeing advice and support  

• Eyecare vouchers  

• Salary sacrifice schemes - car scheme, cycle to work, home and electronics 

• Lifestyle savings - discounts and offers on gym memberships, holidays, days out, shopping, restaurants, etc  

• Health cash plan (personal or family) - where you pay monthly and can claim money back on private treatments such as dental, optical and therapies (e.g. physiotherapy, osteopathy etc)  

• Childcare - breakfast and after school provision  

• Take a look at our rewards and benefits online    

Applications 

Early applications are encouraged. We reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date of the advertisement, should we identify an appropriate candidate.  

If you have any initial questions or would like to learn more about these opportunities, please email [email protected].

About Diverse Academies Trust    

Diverse Academies is a multi-academy trust with a vision to inspire, to raise aspirations and to create brighter tomorrows. Across primary, secondary and special settings, we share a common mission to nurture curiosity, develop wellbeing and empower children and young people to go beyond their aspirations. Together, we believe we can make a difference in our diverse communities, and in the lives of those who learn with us and work with us.     

We empower. We respect. We care.   

Safeguarding  

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in our care. We expect everybody volunteering for the organisation to share this commitment. Any offer will be subject to safer recruitment checks and clearances. View our safeguarding and child protection policy.