Rowan Wood School is a new all through special free school, opening in several phases, for children and young people aged 4-19 who have been diagnosed with autism and severe language and learning delays, working significantly below age-related expectations.

Our vision is for Rowan Wood to be an ambitious, forward thinking, and fully inclusive community which makes learning accessible for all through the following seven principles for children and young people:

•          Active learners with aspirational targets and high expectations.

•          A high-quality curriculum minimising educational disadvantage.

•          Valued and valuable members of society.

•          Breaking down barriers.

•          Family-focused.

•          Removing barriers to learning in safe, supportive environments.

Rowan Wood will become part of The Compass Partnership of Schools, an innovative Multi-Academy Trust comprising a mix of fifteen mainstream and special primary and secondary schools, enabling us to forge meaningful mainstream links that benefit all. This is an exciting time to join our Trust as we merge with Eko Trust on 1st April 2026.

We would like to appoint  Senior Teaching Assistants to work effectively as the lead member of a team of support staff under the direction of a class teacher,   assisting and supporting the class teacher in all aspects of the education, therapy and care of children with identified learning difficulties (severe/complex autism).  We provide a safe and healthy environment for our children. You will also be involved in providing intimate care, managing challenging behaviour and actively participating in physical activities such as swimming and PE. Please refer to the  job description.

Please note interviews are taking place at Willow Dene School, Swingate Lane, Plumstead SE18 2JD and this is for a September 2026 start date.

Induction programmes and training will be provided for the successful candidate.

If you would like to arrange a visit to the Trust or have any further questions, please email smurphy@compassps.uk, mentioning Rowan Wood School in the subject line.

Rowan Wood is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all pupils attending the school. As the duties of this post involve regular contact with children, any offer to the successful candidates will be conditional upon an Enhanced Disclosure being obtained via the Disclosure and Barring Service.  This post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974).

Our successful candidate will also be health checked, and references will be requested before interview.  We are an equal opportunities employer.