At Forward Education Trust we clearly state our mission - empowering children and young people to live their best lives. This is encompassed in our 3 core values: working together with purpose; nurturing potential; inspiring success.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for Teaching Assistant Level 2 to join Leycroft Academy, part of Forward Education Trust.  

Leycroft Academy is a highly specialist primary school dedicated to supporting pupils with a diagnosed Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and all have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). We are committed to providing a personalised, evidence‑informed education that enables every child to achieve their full potential, whatever their starting point.

Our pupils present with significant, persistent and complex social communication and interaction differences, which have a profound impact on their ability to access learning and the general school offer.

Teaching Assistants are responsible for supporting and leading small groups and individuals with Maths, English, Reading, SEMH, vocational and practical activities, supporting pupils to develop resilience, social skills and self-esteem, and deploying effective strategies for supporting pupils with a range of behavioural needs.

 The successful candidate will:

• Compassionate and patient nature

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Empathy and understanding towards diverse needs

• Eagerness to learn and grow in an inclusive educational setting

• Dedication to fostering a positive and nurturing learning environment  

• NVQ 2 for Teaching Assistants or equivalent qualifications or experience would be desirable 

All applications:  All Applicants In line with our commitment to safeguarding will be subject to enhanced DBS disclosure, proof of the right to work in the UK, satisfactory references from at least your last two employers, evidence of required qualifications and medical clearance. 

Why Join Forward Education Trust?

At Forward Education Trust, we know that exceptional people create exceptional outcomes. That’s why we’re committed to building a workplace where you feel valued, supported, and inspired — every single day.

This isn’t just a job. It’s a place where your work truly matters, your development is prioritised, and your wellbeing is taken seriously.

What you can expect from us

We’ve designed a benefits package that supports you at every stage of your career and life:

• A competitive pension scheme (Teacher Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme) with generous employer contributions
• Access to the FET HUB — your all-in-one space for wellbeing support, resources, and benefits
• A Health Cash Plan for you and your dependent children, with the option to add your partner
• A culture that listens, with regular opportunities to share your voice and shape how we grow
• A structured induction, probation, and appraisal process to help you succeed from day one
• An enhanced Employee Assistance Programme offering free, confidential advice and face-to-face support
• High-quality professional development, including FLICK online learning and wider CPD opportunities
• Exclusive discounts and rewards through Reward Gateway and My Perks
• Access to Occupational Health services tailored to your needs
• Recognition that matters — from everyday e-cards to Trust-wide awards celebrating your impact
• Dedicated Mental Health First Aiders across the Trust

A workplace that works for you

We’re proud to champion policies that support your wellbeing and work-life balance, including:

• Flexible working
• Family-friendly policies
• Menopause support
• Special leave of absence

For our leaders, we also provide specialist wellbeing support, including professional supervision, peer mentoring, and guidance around managing workload and accountability.

More than a job — a community

When you join Forward Education Trust, you become part of something bigger. A supportive, inclusive community where collaboration is encouraged, innovation is welcomed, and your ideas genuinely make a difference.

We celebrate success, invest in your future, and create an environment where both you and our pupils can thrive.

Join us. Make an impact. Grow with us.

Closing Date for Applications: 30th May 2026

Interview Date: Week commencing 8th June 2026

The Trust may review applications upon receipt and may call applicants for interview prior to the advert closing date.  Therefore, you are encouraged to make an early application for this role, and we reserve the right to close the vacancy earlier than the advertised closing date. 

Please note that only fully completed Forward Education Trust Application forms will be accepted; we will not read accompanying Curriculum Vitae (CV) or accept them in place of an application form.  

If you do not hear from the school within 14 days of the closing date, please assume that your application has not been shortlisted. The successful applicants will require an enhanced DBS check and will be subject to relevant pre-employment checks.  

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.  This post is covered by Part 7 of the Immigration Act (2016) and therefore the ability to speak fluent spoken English is an essential requirement for this role.  

An online search will also be carried out for all shortlisted candidates.

Forward Education Trust is committed to the safeguarding and welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate must promote this ethos.

The successful candidate will be subject to all necessary pre-employment checks, including enhanced DBS; Prohibition check; Childcare Disqualification; qualifications, medical fitness; identity and right to work and two references.