Autism jobs

At Ambitious about Autism, we are ambitious for autistic children and young people. We believe every young person should be supported to learn, thrive and achieve their potential.

St John's College is a specialist education and residential college for autistic young people aged 19 to 25, many of whom have complex needs. Our environment plays a vital role in supporting learning, wellbeing and independence, and we are looking for a skilled and reliable Premises Supervisor to help us maintain safe, welcoming and well run spaces across our site.

About the role

As Premises Supervisor, you will be part of the Estates and Maintenance team, supporting the day to day upkeep, safety and compliance of our education and residential buildings. You will carry out a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, working with minimal supervision and taking pride in maintaining high standards across the college.

You will also support statutory compliance checks, liaise with contractors, and help ensure our buildings remain safe and fit for purpose for young people, staff and visitors.

About you

You will be an experienced maintenance operative or handyman with a practical, solutions focused approach. You will be organised, reliable and able to manage your workload effectively, whilst working collaboratively with colleagues across the college.

You will understand the importance of health and safety, safeguarding and compliance in a specialist education and residential environment and be committed to working in line with our values.

What we offer

• The opportunity to work within a values driven organisation making a real difference to autistic young people

• A supportive and inclusive working environment

• Access to training and development relevant to the role

• A workplace where safeguarding, wellbeing and respect are central to everything we do

Closing date: 8th March
Shortlisting and outcome notifications: 9–10 March
Interviews: 12–13 March

Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

Are you looking for a new challenge? Passionate about making sure all our learners have an excellent education? Look no further come and join us in this critical role!

Ambitious about Autism has an amazing opportunity for an inspirational leader. We are seeking an outstanding and innovative Executive Head to work across Treehouse School and Ambitious College. The successful person will help build on our successes and be responsible and accountable for the operational direction, quality and outcomes of our schools and college. The Executive Head will act as an ambassador for education services with internal and external stakeholders. 

Ambitious about Autism stands with autistic children, young people and their families to champion rights, campaign for change and create opportunities. Our overarching aim is that all autistic children and young people have an excellent and inclusive education that enables them to learn, thrive and achieve. Ultimately, this will support them to have a good quality of life, including the realistic prospect of living and working as part of their communities.

What we offer: 

• Amazing colleagues with a shared passion for autistic children and young people.
• Strong values-based culture. 
• Excellent training and development opportunities including an ILM accredited leadership and management course.
• Flexible working. 
• Re-location package.
• Access to bespoke executive leadership coaching.
• Annual staff recognition awards.  
• Interest free season ticket loans. 
• A wide range of wellness programmes including: virtual fitness classes, art & cooking classes and learning programmes.  
• Employee Assistance Programme, to help you balance your work, family, and personal life.  
• Free physiotherapy.  

Role Closes:  Friday 6th March 2026

Shortlist- Tuesday 10th March 2026

Stage 1 – Stakeholder Engagement Day (Virtual): Thursday 12th March PM- Microsoft Teams call

Stage 2 - Interview and assessment (In person at Treehouse School,Pears National Centre): Monday 16th March

 Start date: September 2026

 To find out more about this position please find attached the recruitment pack entailing the role details. For an informal discussion regarding this exciting senior leadership role, please contact Ben Lowe.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

Ambitious College, part of Ambitious about Autism, is seeking a passionate and experienced Supported Internship Lecturer to deliver an outstanding supported internship programme at LEGOLAND  Windsor Resort  in partnership with DFN Project Search.

This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference by supporting autistic young people to develop skills, confidence, and independence, and to successfully progress into paid employment.

The Role

As Supported Internship Lecturer, you will:

• Deliver a high-quality supported internship curriculum aligned with learner needs and employment outcomes
• Teach, coach, and support Ambitious College learners on-site at LEGOLAND Windsor
• Provide course leadership, ensuring learners achieve personalised goals and progress towards sustained paid work
• Act as the daily point of contact for key stakeholders, including employers, job coaches, learners, families, and Ambitious College teams
• Provide operational oversight to ensure the smooth, safe, and successful running of the supported internship programme
• Monitor learner progress, maintain accurate records, and contribute to quality assurance and continuous improvement

About You

You will bring:

• Experience of teaching, training, or supporting young people with additional needs (particularly autism and/or learning disabilities)
• Knowledge of supported internships, employability, or vocational education
• Strong relationship-building and communication skills
• The ability to work independently on-site while collaborating effectively with wider college teams
• A commitment to high expectations, learner-centred practice, and positive employment outcomes

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a forward-thinking organisation championing inclusion and employment opportunities
• Work in a dynamic, real-world employment setting
• Make a lasting impact on learners' lives and futures

If you are committed to inclusive education and believe in the potential of every young person to succeed in the workplace, we would love to hear from you.

Start Date- April 2026

Closing Date- Sunday 1st March 2026

Shortlist Date- Monday 2 March 2026

Interview date- Tuesday 9th March 2026

Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

St John's College is seeking a passionate and committed Supported Internship Lecturer to deliver a high-quality supported internship programme for autistic young people at Amazon Crawley. This is a rewarding, hands-on role where you will combine teaching, job coaching and course leadership to support interns to successfully transition into sustained, paid employment.

Based full-time at the Amazon Crawley site, you will deliver the supported internship curriculum while interns work on rotational placements across the site, developing employability, independence and workplace skills in a real employment setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver and adapt the supported internship curriculum to meet the needs of individual learners
• Provide teaching, coaching and structured support to interns in the workplace
• Lead and coordinate the supported internship programme at the host site
• Act as the daily point of contact for all key stakeholders, including Amazon staff, job coaches, college teams, families and external partners
• Provide operational oversight to ensure the smooth and successful day-to-day running of the programme
• Track learner progress, set targets and support interns to move into paid employment outcomes
• Promote positive workplace behaviours, independence and confidence
• Champion inclusive practice and reasonable adjustments within the workplace

About You

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience teaching, supporting or coaching learners with SEND, particularly autistic young people
• Understands supported internships, employability pathways or vocational education (or is keen to learn)
• Is highly organised, proactive and confident working independently on a host employer site
• Communicates effectively with a wide range of stakeholders
• Is passionate about inclusion, equity and supporting young people into meaningful employment
• Can model professionalism and high expectations in a workplace setting

Why Join Us?

• Make a real, lasting difference to young people's lives
• Work in partnership with a global employer in a dynamic, real-world setting
• Be part of a values-led organisation committed to inclusion and opportunity
• Access professional development and support within a specialist education and employment pathway

Closing Date: Wednesday 4th March 2026

Shortlist Date: Thursday 5thMarch 2026

Interview date: Friday 13th March 2026

Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

Join a team with a bold mission – at Swindon and Gloucestershire Mind, we are dedicated to reshaping the landscape of mental health and emotional wellbeing in our community. The Autism Practitioner will work with people across Swindon with Autism and mild to moderate mental health concerns at pre/post assessment stage. Your role is all about providing a collaborative and tailored approach.

What You'll Do:

Collaboration and Efficiency: Work hand-in-hand with other local agencies/organisations to effectively deliver a wide variety of wellbeing support for people with Autism.
 

Innovation and Empowerment: Channel your passion into providing evidence-based interventions, elevating the mental health and emotional well-being of the people we serve, while opening doors to life's possibilities.

This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about autism, equality, and empowerment, and who believes autistic adults should be listened to, respected, and supported to lead fulfilling lives.

This is an exciting opportunity to join and support a growing and developing user-led grassroots organisation.

We are seeking a Specialist Autism Caseworker and Advocate to join our local charity and support autistic adults to have their voices heard.

You will provide independent, person-centred advocacy and casework, supporting Camden autistic adults to understand their rights, access services, overcome barriers, and make informed choices. This may include attending meetings, supporting appeals, liaising with professionals, and providing post-diagnostic support.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide one-to-one specialist community autism advocacy and casework
• Support autistic adults to identify and express their views, wishes, and concerns
• Promote self-advocacy and informed decision-making
• Liaise with health, social care, and voluntary sector professionals
• Maintain accurate case records and uphold confidentiality and safeguarding
• Contribute to service development and awareness-raising

We’re Looking For Someone Who Has:

• Experience working with autistic adults or within advocacy, disability, or mental health services
• Strong communication and casework skills
• Knowledge of relevant legislation (or willingness to learn)
• A person-centred, inclusive, and rights-based approach

We actively welcome applications from autistic people and people with lived experience. Reasonable adjustments will be offered throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace.

Please send your CV and Covering Letter outlining how you meet the attached criteria for the Person Specification.

At Ambitious about Autism, we're looking for a Finance Assistant to join our team on a 12 month MAT cover.

This is a critical role within the Financial Accounting function ensuring that processing is kept up to date and that accounting records are accurately input onto the finance system.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Setting up new suppliers on the finance system
• Managing the purchase ledger
• Entering invoices onto the finance system
• Training new staff on using the finance system
• Entering all expense claims and checking that receipts are attached

We are looking for someone who has:

• Proven financial accounting experience
• Proven experience in all areas of transactional accounting including the purchasing and sales ledgers
• A good level of numeracy and financial literacy
• Ability to work unsupervised to a high standard whilst effectively prioritising workload

In return, we offer great benefits including a generous holiday allowance and commitment to continued professional development (CPD), flexible, hybrid working and more!

This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious individual who would like to work for a forward-thinking, open and honest organisation and make a real impact to the young people we work with. Please find our full recruitment pack on the link below.

If you have any questions about the role or would like to have a confidential chat, please contact James Axford, Recruitment Officer.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of autistic young people? Do you have the skills, resilience, and creativity to inspire learners and support them through challenges? Ambitious College is seeking a dedicated and dynamic Lecturer to join our team and help our learners thrive.

Key Responsibilities

Building Strong Relationships

• Develop trusting, meaningful relationships with learners, recognising and responding to their individual needs and challenges
• Reflect on and adapt your practice to ensure every learner feels valued, understood, and supported

Facilitating Challenging Conversations

• Engage learners in difficult or sensitive conversations with empathy, clarity, and respect
• Maintain positive, professional relationships while ensuring learners' voices are heard and respected

Creating an Inclusive Community

• Champion positive mental health and emotional wellbeing across the college community
• Contribute to a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment that promotes personal growth and mutual respect

Goal-Focused Learner Support

• Work collaboratively with learners to identify personal, social, and educational goals
• Develop individualised plans and provide consistent guidance to support progress and achievement

Staff Leadership and Management

Leading by Example

• Inspire and support staff to deliver high-quality, learner-centred support, particularly in relation to mental health needs
• Promote consistent practice and a shared commitment to positive outcomes for learners

Effective Team Management

• Oversee and guide staff to achieve the best possible outcomes for learners
• Foster a culture of collaboration, reflection, and continuous professional development

Organisation and Collaboration

Highly Organised Practice

• Manage individualised learner timetables with accuracy and attention to detail
• Ensure safeguarding, recording, and reporting responsibilities are completed promptly and to a high standard

Working in Partnership

• Collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, including OT, SaLT, and work experience providers
• Support smooth transitions and coordinated approaches to meeting learners' needs

Forward-Thinking and Flexible Approach

Adaptability

• Demonstrate flexibility in lesson planning, individualised targets, and learner timetables
• Regularly evaluate practice and adapt strategies to maximise learner engagement and progress

Innovative Practice

• Use creative and motivating approaches to engage learners
• Ensure learning opportunities align with learners' long-term goals and aspirations

Preparing Learners for Life After College

• Support learners to prepare for their next steps, including further education, employment, or returning to their local communities

At Ambitious College, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where every learner is empowered to achieve their full potential. If you are a compassionate, innovative, and organised professional with a passion for working with autistic young people, we would love to hear from you.

Apply Now: Join us in shaping the future of our learners. Help them build strong relationships, overcome challenges, and achieve their dreams.

Closing Date: Wednesday 25 February 2026

Shortlisting date:  Thursday 26 February 2026

Interview date:  Wednesday 4 March 2026

Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

We are looking for a College Administrator/Receptionist to join our team on an initial 9 month MAT cover – this may extend to 12 months.

You'll provide administrative and reception support to Ambitious College, based at West Thames Campus. You'll be the first point of contact for the college, receiving visitors, telephone calls, deliveries and email. You'll meet and greet external and internal visitors, ensuring they are signed in/out according to internal processes.

You'll assist with any parent/carer communications, such as emailing/telephoning, sending out information packs or letters as needed. You'll provide administrative support for financial processes, including raising purchase orders, processing invoices and goods received.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Experience of providing high quality administration and reception support within a fast paced /busy and pressurised environment
• Excellent IT skills – Microsoft Office and particularly Outlook, Excel and Word
• Experience of financial administration and processes such as invoicing, petty cash and use of financial systems/software
• Excellent interpersonal skills at all levels via telephone and written forms of communication including experience of being able to set out and form correspondence

In return, we offer great benefits including a generous holiday allowance and commitment to continued professional development (CPD), flexible working and more!

This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious individual who would like to work for a forward-thinking, open and honest organisation and make a real impact to the young people we work with. Please find our full recruitment pack on the link below.

If you have any questions about the role or would like to have a confidential chat, please contact James Axford, Recruitment Officer.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

Learning Support Assistant (LSA) – Autism / SEND

Ambitious About Autism is recruiting a Learning Support Assistant (LSA) to support autistic children and young people aged 4–19 at TreeHouse School (Ofsted Outstanding) specialist school in Muswell Hill.

• Full time, permanent (term time only)
• Hours: 8.45am – 4.35pm
• Salary: £26,638 – £28,005 per annum (paid across 52 weeks)
• Location: Muswell Hill, North London (N10 3JA)
• Start date: February 2026 (flexible depending on notice period)

Please note, this role may not meet Skilled Worker visa sponsorship criteria.

You will work 1:1 with autistic pupils, supporting them to access the curriculum while building independence, confidence, and self-esteem through classroom learning and community based activities. This role includes personal care.

This role is ideal for candidates with experience or interest in:

• SEN / SEND
• Autism
• Learning Support Assistant or Teaching Assistant roles
• Care, youth work, education, or psychology backgrounds

What we offer:

• Term time only working (paid across 52 weeks)
• Autism specific training and ongoing CPD
• Supportive leadership and a strong wellbeing culture
• Varied, meaningful work with real impact
• Full benefits package: please see our website

The official internal title for this role is Specialist Teaching Assistant, but it is advertised externally as Learning Support Assistant to reflect the nature of the role and maximise reach.

Ambitious About Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious About Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search may be carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The safeguarding responsibilities of the post are as per the job description and person specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities, certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

St John's College is an award-winning, Ofsted-rated Good autism-specific college for autistic young people aged 16–25. We are now seeking an inspiring and strategic Assistant Principal – Vocational Learning to join our College Leadership Team (CLT).

About the Role

As Assistant Principal – Vocational Learning, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and driving the future of our vocational provision across the college. You will lead the development of high-quality, innovative vocational pathways that empower autistic young people to progress into employment and adulthood with confidence.

A key focus of the role will be the development and expansion of Supported Internships and social enterprises. These programmes follow the DFN Project SEARCH model, a globally recognised framework that supports young people with autism to gain valuable work skills and meaningful workplace experience.

This role can be based at any of our locations, depending on operational need, and will involve working collaboratively across multiple sites in Brighton and Sussex.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and lead a high-quality vocational learning offer, with a strong focus on Supported Internships and social enterprises.
• Provide strategic oversight for the expansion and sustainability of supported internships and future vocational initiatives.
• Lead the vocational elements of the college curriculum, including pre-supported internship pathways.
• Manage, support, and mentor vocational learning staff, ensuring they have the tools, guidance, and resources to excel.
• Work collaboratively across geographically dispersed teams to ensure consistency, quality, and impact in vocational provision.

Why Join St John's College?

• Be part of a values-driven, autism-specialist organisation with a strong reputation for quality and innovation.
• Join a committed and supportive leadership team with a shared ambition for learner success.
• Make a genuine, lasting difference to the lives of autistic young people.

If you are an experienced and passionate leader with a strong background in vocational education and a commitment to inclusive practice, we would love to hear from you. Only applications submitted online will be considered via the recruitment portal

Closing Date: Sunday 22 February 2026

Shortlisting Date: Monday 23 February 2026

Interview date: Thursday 26 2026

Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

• Location: Norfolk
• Salary: £25,595 per annum, plus mileage
• Hours per week: 37.5 hours, including travel time
• Required: Previous experience working with children and young people with learning disabilities and Autism.
• Full UK manual driving licence, access to a vehicle and a willingness to travel across the area.
• Desirable: BTEC Level 4 in Positive Behaviour Support

Positive Behaviour Support changes lives. Join us and help unlock new possibilities.

 As a Positive Behavioural Support (PBS) Practitioner, you will support children and young people with learning disabilities, Autism and other support needs to transform their lives as part of our new service in Norfolk

Who will I support?

You will work with children and young people in Norfolk who may not be accessing education and may be at significant risk of entering specialist residential care.
 Your role will focus on helping them remain in their local communities, close to the people and places that matter most. 

How will I make a difference?

Every young person will benefit from tailored strategies and interventions to help them flourish in a safe, supportive environment. You will take time to understand each young person’s lived experience and support them, their families, carers and other professionals to learn and apply appropriate positive behaviour support techniques.

Your support will help young people stay in their current placements, access their communities and develop skills and tools they will use for the rest of their lives to live fulfilling, independent lives. Using approaches built on the principles of inclusion, choice and participation, your support could be the difference between a closed door and a clear path to independence 

How will I develop?

If you do not already hold a BTEC Level 4 in Positive Behaviour Support (which is desirable), you will be enrolled onto this course and supported throughout your studies while you work with us, on completion you will receive a salary increase to £27,500
 You will receive regular clinical supervision from experienced professionals to ensure you feel confident and supported in your role. 

What benefits will I have?

We have a range of benefits that you can mix and match to suit you, such as:

• Stream – an app that gives you access to a percentage of your pay as you earn it, access to coaching, vouchers, discounts, cashback and more.  
• Blue light card – we will reimburse your Blue Light Card membership which provides discounts in your favourite shops and restaurants
• Simply Health - Fully funded health cash plans giving you access to a 24-hour GP, money back on
• Pension and Life Assurance – you’ll be enrolled into our Scottish Widows pension scheme and Life Assurance scheme

Barnet Mencap is a charity based in Finchley that provides support and runs a multitude of projects for people with learning disabilities and/or Autism. We are dynamic, enthusiastic, diverse, and committed to equal opportunities and the safeguarding of children and adults at risk.  

There is currently a vacancy within our Equality Housing Team for a focused individual to join our caring, passionate, and diverse team in supporting adults with moderate learning disabilities and autistic adults to live independently in housing situations of their choice. Please view the Job Description and Person Specification for a better idea of what the role entails and what we’re looking for. 

The successful candidate will have: 

• Experience of working with adults with learning disabilities and autistic adults in a community setting 

• Understanding of the issues faced by people with learning disabilities and autistic people living independently and the skills to meet their practical, social and emotional needs 

• A ‘Person Centred Planning’ ethos 

• Providing support with personal care as required

• Excellent communication and record keeping skills 

We know job satisfaction, flexibility, work/life balance, and a great team are incredibly important. So, at Barnet Mencap, in addition to offering 30 days of annual leave per year (including Bank Holidays), we have a TOIL system to allow flexible working, and our team can benefit from other perks including the Blue Light Card. 

To apply, please send your CV alongside a covering letter explaining how you meet the criteria on the person specification or fill in an application form which you can find on our website.   

The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service application in line with Section 115 of The Police Act 1997.   

Closing Date:  Tuesday 17th March

Interview Date:  Wednesday 25th March

We have some fantastic opportunities for dedicated and enthusiastic Keyworkers to join Barnardo's. Currently we have multiple Full Time, Permanent contracts available as we add to our growing team in Greater Manchester. Would you like the chance to provide crucial support to Children, Young People with Learning Disabilities and/or Autism (up to 25 years) and their families as part of the NHS Long Term Plan?

Covering the Greater Manchester area, it is essential to hold a valid UK driving licence with access to your own vehicle. As a Keyworker, you will have passion and commitment when delivering quality support within the family home, placement, or inpatient setting. You will work as part of a team to prevent - where possible - children and young people from requiring an inpatient admission or placement. Are you a compassionate individual looking for a meaningful and rewarding role?

As this is a new service there are lots of opportunities to develop your skill set, knowledge and career progression going forward. The service has a comprehensive training offer including core competencies through to bespoke training. To be a successful Keyworker, you will need to have the following:

• Experience in supporting children with Learning Disabilities or Autism
• The ability to ensure the 'voice' of the child and family is central, enabling lived experience to create change.
• Excellent team working skills. You will work as part of a service that covers the whole of Greater Manchester. However, there are 5 teams providing the opportunity to offer support and create strong relationships and partnerships in a local area and with colleagues which include Manchester, Bolton, Wigan, Tameside, Salford, Stockport and Trafford.
• Safeguarding knowledge.
• Good IT and recording skills.

This service is dynamic, no two days are the same, however you will have a number of children and young people who you will build positive and meaningful relationships with. You will manage your own diary with families, providing support at a time that suits their needs. This means you will be working some evenings and weekends. In return you will manage your hours so may benefit from later starts or earlier finishes. You will support in homes and the community and attend meetings with professionals and families to ensure excellent communication, a shared understanding and a team approach. You will support information to be understood, views to be shared, checking the right provision is known about and able to be accessed. You will work closely with health and social care partners. We aim to provide the right support, at the right time, in the right way. You may work by yourself or alongside colleagues depending on the support needed.

When completing your application please refer to your skills knowledge and experience in relation to the Advert description,  Person Specification, Job Description and Additional Information document. This should be done with an understanding of the context of the service described.

Please note due to the high volume of applications for some posts, this advert might close before the displayed closing date. We recommend that you apply for this role as soon as possible.

Pay & Reward Framework

We know that our colleagues go above and beyond in delivering our vital work, driven by their passion and commitment to Barnardo's values.  We also know that we can only realise our ambitions and achieve better outcomes for more children, thanks to the talent, hard work and creativity of our people. 

For all these reasons, we are committed to a new approach to pay and reward, to ensure it is fair, attractive and progressive, which was rolled out in April 2023. This is a positive change for the charity, and a part of our People & Culture Strategy. It will assist us in supporting colleagues to belong, thrive and grow in their colleague journey at Barnardo's and in time will offer clear routes of progression for colleagues in both their career and their pay. 

Whilst the full pay band and salary range is advertised, our approach to starting salaries is to appoint between the minimum to mid-point of the pay band – this ensures that pay steps are available to reward our colleagues annually based on their contribution to excellence and alignment to our values and behaviours.  More details on Barnardo's pay framework can be found upon application. 

Benefits

Workplace Offer: What it means for you

Our hybrid working initiative is based on trust, flexibility and empowerment. We understand our workplace offer means different things to different people, and we encourage those conversations. This may mean working at one of our stores, services, working at home, in the community, at one of our Collaboration Hubs or depending on the role any combination of these. Please read through the advert carefully to understand the remits of hybrid working that will be specific to the role.

• Barnardo's believe in creating equality of opportunity in the workplace and supporting people to manage their work-life balance; we are therefore open to offering flexible working arrangements.
• Annual Leave entitlement for full-time colleagues is 26 days per annum, increasing to 27 days per annum, after 3 years Barnardo's service, 29 days per annum, after 5 years Barnardo's service and 30 days per annum, after 7 years Barnardo's service. Those working less than full time are entitled to the same level of holiday pro rata
• The ability to buy up to another 5 days annual leave via our HolidayPlus scheme
• A host of family friendly leave options including company Maternity Paternity and Adoption pay; together with all family additional leave options
• Service related sick pay from day 1
• Access to a Group Personal Pension with a matched 4% or 6% contribution from Barnardo's. Ability to pay via salary sacrifice to garner both tax and NI savings on your own contribution
• Death in service cover of 4x annual earnings for all staff contributing to our Group Personal Pension
• Cycle2work scheme
• Interest free season ticket loans
• Discounts and cashback from at high street shops including major supermarkets, cinemas, gyms, leisure/theme parks, holidays and much more via our Benefit Portal
• 20% discount at Barnardo's stores
• Opportunity to purchase a health cash plan to claim towards dental, glasses, therapy etc
• Free access to round the clock employee assistance program for advice and support
• Access to Barnardo's Learning and Development offer

*T&C's apply based on contract

About Barnardo's

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and cultivating a culture where everyone can belong and thrive through inclusion and connectivity. We want our workforce to be reflective of the communities we work with, and for equality, diversity and inclusion to be embedded in everything we do. We are a Disability Confident Leader, are progressing our ambition to be an anti-racist organisation with Anti-Racism Commitments and actions in place and have networks for colleagues who are disabled, LGBT+, Black and Minoritised Ethnic and Women. We particularly encourage applications from Black and Minoritised Ethnic and/or disabled candidates who are currently underrepresented in our workforce. For disabled applicants, we offer reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

Our basis and values