Autism Support Mentor – Supporting Students with Autism & Complex Needs
Merton, South West London | £95 – £100 per day | PAYE only | Full-time | Temp to Permanent | ASAP Start
Do you believe that every young person deserves to feel understood, valued, and supported to reach their potential?
A specialist school in Merton is looking for a Teaching Assistant / Autism Support Mentor to join their dedicated and nurturing team. The school supports students aged 11–16 with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), communication and sensory needs, and social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) challenges.
This role is about connection, patience, and understanding. You’ll help young people who find school difficult to feel safe, build confidence, and achieve at their own pace.
About the Setting
This is a specialist, inclusive provision that takes a holistic approach to supporting young people with Autism and complex needs. The team uses trauma-informed, communication-focused, and positive behaviour support approaches to help students thrive emotionally and academically.
You’ll be part of a highly skilled multidisciplinary team that values empathy, curiosity, and consistency.
Your Role as an Autism Support Mentor
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Support secondary-aged students with Autism, complex learning needs, and SEMH
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Provide 1:1 and small-group support to help students engage with learning and social development
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Use structured routines, visual supports, and sensory strategies to create a calm and predictable environment
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Build meaningful, trusting relationships that support emotional regulation and wellbeing
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Work closely with teachers, therapists, and pastoral leads to deliver tailored interventions
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Celebrate progress — no matter how small — and promote independence and confidence
What We’re Looking For
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Experience working with children or young people with Autism, complex needs, or SEND (school, care, or youth settings)
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A calm, patient, and nurturing approach
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Ability to communicate effectively and adapt to different needs and learning styles
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An understanding of Autism, sensory processing, or emotional regulation (training provided)
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Genuine passion for inclusive education and helping every child succeed
Key Details
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Start date: ASAP / November
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Location: Merton, South West London (good transport links + free parking)
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Pay: £95 – £100 per day (depending on experience), PAYE only
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Contract: Full-time, Temp to Permanent
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Training: Ongoing CPD, Autism-specific and trauma-informed training included
This Role Would Suit Someone With Experience As A:
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Teaching Assistant (SEND, Autism, or SEMH)
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Behaviour or Learning Mentor
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Support Worker or Residential Care Worker
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Psychology or Education Graduate
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Or someone with compassion, consistency, and a genuine desire to support neurodiverse young people
Why Parker Smith Inclusion
At Parker Smith Inclusion, we’re passionate about supporting schools and professionals who make a real difference in the lives of children with additional needs. With over 350 five-star Google reviews, we’re trusted for our integrity, transparency, and expertise.
When you work with us, you’ll receive:
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Thoughtful school matches that reflect your values and experience
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Access to exclusive SEND and Autism-focused roles
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Transparent PAYE pay — no umbrella deductions
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Expert guidance and interview support throughout
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Opportunities in specialist schools and alternative provisions
Ready to make a difference in the lives of young people with Autism and complex needs?
Contact Jamie Martinez at Parker Smith Inclusion or submit your CV today.