Priory School is a vibrant and growing special school serving students aged 11–19 with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) from across the London Borough of Croydon.

We are seeking a versatile and creative Teaching Assistant to join our dedicated team within Pathway 5, which supports students with complex learning difficulties, often associated with autism. These learners may exhibit significant behaviours that challenge and require a highly personalised and flexible approach to learning and support.

About Pathway 5:

• Students range from early developmental stages to National Curriculum levels.

• Transitions and routine changes can be particularly challenging.

• Communication is needs-led, and staff must adapt to each student’s preferred communication style.

• Group learning and shared attention tasks are often not suitable.

• All students require minimum 1:1 staffing, with higher ratios often necessary for off-site activities.

What We’re Looking For:

• We are looking for someone who is:

• Able to confidently and safely manage behaviours that challenge, using a calm and consistent approach.

• Resilient, patient, and calm under pressure.

• Person-centred and empathetic.

• Committed to creating a safe, structured, and nurturing environment.

• Focused on promoting independence, developing daily living skills, and supporting functional communication to enhance quality of life and student outcomes.

What We Offer:

• A supportive multidisciplinary team environment.

• Ongoing professional development, including training in:

  • Autism awareness

  • Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)

  • Communication strategies

  • Sensory processing

  • Accredited physical intervention techniques

• A strong commitment to staff wellbeing, safety, and career progression.