Autism Lead Practitioner

Thames Valley School is an Autism Specific Specialist Free School seeking an Autism Lead Practitioner. This is a great and exciting opportunity for you to join a dynamic team and be part of the school’s journey in establishing excellence in the education of autistic pupils.

Every child is entitled to an education and every child deserves the best possible developmental opportunities so that they learn more and do more, preparing themselves for life after school. Our autistic pupils learn in happy and safe environments that are able to support their individual needs as autistic learners.

As Autism Lead Practitioner, you will be responsible for leadership of autism practice and pedagogy within your school. You will support staff in all roles in the school to provide highly specialist support.  You will use your experience to advise, negotiate, advocate and champion the needs of our pupils. You will liaise with the SENCO and school therapists to ensure individual support for pupils ensures progress against EHC plans.

You will be passionate about developing best practice in your school and be self-motivated to continually update your knowledge and ensure practice in the school is informed by evidence and research.

LAT Academies Trust currently includes two other free schools, Church Lawton School & Vanguard School. The school’s work to maximise the standards, curriculum offer, training and employment opportunities. This role will enable you to influence & contribute to the future of the LAT Academies Trust schools.

Who we are looking for:

We are seeking to appoint an outstanding individual who will have a wide range of skills and experience, who is looking to work in an ambitious and rewarding environment.  

You will:

• hold a personal and professional academic track record of the highest calibre
• possess excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to inspire pupils and colleagues
• be highly motivated and have a strong commitment to creating an outstanding autistic specialist school
• be highly knowledgeable in the field of autism
• be self-led in ensuring your knowledge and understanding is up to date
• knowledgeable about effective pedagogy for autistic pupils
• have a proven track record of high-quality specialist teaching
• Have experience of, or have clear aspirations to be a successful leader
• The ability to coach and mentor teachers, including ensuring those new to the school adopt a consistent approach to teaching and learning.

To be considered for this role, you will need to be able to demonstrate strong leadership qualities (including those of innovation and vision).

How to apply

·        To apply for this role please complete the online application form.

·        When completing the supporting statement, please refer to the job description and person specification and highlight any information that shows your suitability for the role

For more information about this job please email lisabeach@thamesvalley.reading.sch.uk

Applications for this job are sought from anyone who is suitably qualified and experienced for the role but particularly welcome from those with a diagnosis of autism or Asperger syndrome.

The LAT Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and adults who use our services and as such expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Successful applicants will be required to complete the relevant safeguarding checks.

We are an equal opportunities employer.