About The School
We are recruiting for a school that provides a specialist, nurturing, and highly structured learning environment for primary-aged children with a diagnosis of autism, related learning difficulties, and associated communication and sensory needs. The Trust believes that communication is the foundation of all learning. Their tailored curriculum focuses heavily on life skills, emotional regulation, and functional academics. They work as a multidisciplinary team—combining teaching, speech and language therapy, and occupational therapy—to ensure every child has the tools to express themselves and thrive.
The Role
We are seeking an exceptional, resilient, and deeply empathetic Teaching Assistant to join one of the structured class teams. In this role, you will not just be helping with schoolwork; you will be a vital anchor for the learners, helping them navigate sensory overload, build meaningful communication skills, and develop independence. You will work closely with pupils who have diverse profiles on the autism spectrum, some of whom may communicate pre-verbally or exhibit high-anxiety behaviours.
Key Responsibilities
Individualised Pupil Support & Learning
- Deliver tailored interventions under the guidance of the class teacher, adapting tasks dynamically to suit the cognitive and sensory profile of each child.
- Facilitate alternative communication methods throughout the day, consistently using tools like Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), Makaton signing, high-tech AAC devices, and visual timetables.
- Support transition periods between activities, lessons, and physical spaces, which can often be a source of high anxiety for our learners.
- Promote life and independence skills, guiding pupils through essential daily routines including feeding, toileting, and personal hygiene care where required.
Sensory & Behavioural Support
- Implement sensory diets and regulation strategies as prescribed by Occupational Therapists, utilising sensory rooms, deep pressure tools, and movement breaks.
- Utilise Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) plans to co-regulate and de-escalate instances of distressed or challenging behaviour with dignity and calm authority.
- Create a low-arousal environment within the classroom, ensuring visual and auditory clutter is minimised to prevent sensory overload.
Collaboration & Record Keeping
- Track and log daily progress towards individual Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) targets and Individual Education Plans (IEPs).
- Collaborate closely with internal specialists, including Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs), Occupational Therapists (OTs), and Educational Psychologists.
- Provide objective feedback to the class teacher regarding pupil engagement, triggers, and breakthrough moments to help shape future planning.
Requirements & Person Specification
Qualifications & Experience
- Experience working with children with autism or complex special educational needs (SEND), ideally within a school, specialist provision, or care setting.
- Understanding of autism spectrum conditions, including how sensory processing differences and communication barriers impact a child’s behaviour and learning.
- Experience with communication frameworks (e.g., PECS, Makaton, Visual Schedules) or a strong willingness to undergo immediate intensive training.
- Level 2 or 3 TA Qualification (e.g., NVQ Level 2/3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning) is highly desirable but practical experience and the right mindset are prioritised.
Personal Attributes
- High emotional resilience and a calm, unflappable demeanour when handling unpredictable or challenging behaviours.
- Deep empathy and patience, understanding that behaviour is a form of communication.
- Excellent team-working skills, with the ability to take direction while showing proactive initiative in a fast-paced classroom.
- Physical stamina to actively engage in floor-based play, outdoor learning, and safely implement physical regulation strategies if required.
What We Offer
- Comprehensive specialist training, including Team Teach (de-escalation and positive handling), Attention Autism (Bucket Time), and intensive interaction techniques.
- A deeply supportive culture with regular debriefs, clinical supervision support, and a focus on staff mental health and well-being.
- Clear career pathways, with opportunities to progress into Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) roles, pastoral leads, or supported routes into SEND teaching.
- Excellent local government pension scheme and school holidays off.
Safeguarding & Safer Recruitment
We are rigorously committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, online identity checks, and at least two satisfactory professional references.