SEND Teaching Assistant - Southwark

SEND Teaching Assistant - Special School 

Location: Southwark, South East London

Start Date: ASAP

Hours: Full-time and Long-term

Pay: £93 - £105 PAYE per day

What does it take to help an autistic pupil with complex needs feel safe, understood and supported, particularly when communication is difficult, sensory experiences become overwhelming or everyday demands feel challenging? Working in a specialist autism setting requires patience, empathy and an understanding that every pupil has different ways of communicating, learning and experiencing the world. Recognising sensory differences, adapting communication and understanding that behaviours that challenge may be a form of communication are all essential to providing the right support.

What Your Week Could Look Like

Imagine supporting an autistic pupil who finds transitions, changes to routine or busy environments overwhelming. Through a calm and consistent approach, visual supports and individualised communication strategies, you help them navigate their day, feel secure and engage with their surroundings. You may support pupils with a range of sensory, cognitive, communication and social and emotional needs, including non-speaking pupils. This means learning to recognise individual communication cues, adapting your approach and finding meaningful ways to engage with each child.

Most importantly, you will recognise that every pupil is an individual, that behaviour can be a form of communication, and that progress looks different for everyone. You will be committed to helping pupils feel safe, understood, included and supported to achieve their potential.

Your duties as a SEND Teaching Assistant:

• Using PECS, visual timetables, gestures and alternative communication methods, where appropriate.
• Recognising signs of sensory overload and emotional dysregulation and responding with patience and reassurance.
• Supporting transitions, routines and changes in the environment.
• Understanding behaviours that challenge as potential forms of communication or expressions of unmet needs.
• Encouraging independence, social interaction, engagement and the development of essential life skills.

Who should apply?:

You may be:

• An experienced Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant or SEND professional.
• Someone with experience supporting autistic pupils, particularly those with SLD and complex needs.
• Confident supporting sensory needs, communication differences and emotional regulation.
• Patient, resilient and nurturing, with the ability to remain calm in challenging situations.
• Someone who understands the importance of routine, consistency and individualised support.
• A strong team player who can work closely with teachers and other professionals.

Previous experience within a specialist autism, SEND or complex needs setting would be advantageous.

PS Inclusion recruits exclusively for SEND roles, with placements focused on long-term and permanent opportunities.Before introducing candidates to a school, the team takes the time to understand their experience, strengths, and the type of setting in which they would thrive. The aim is to connect educators with opportunities that suit their skills and allow them to make a meaningful difference.

With more than 1,500 educators placed and over 400 five-star Google reviews, the team is recognised for its efficiency and supportive approach throughout the recruitment process.

What will we give you in return?

• Specialist SEND recruitment consultancy: At Parker Smith Inclusion, we put people first! We take the time to get to know you, finding you the right career opportunity.
• Over 400 five-star Google reviews: Rated for our efficiency and genuine support in finding educators the right role, and schools the right educators!
• Access to specialist roles: We partner with multiple schools, local authorities & educational organisations and will do the job search for you.
• Transparent pay: PAYE payments only, and know exactly what you will be paid!
• Expert advice: Our consultants are experts in SEND recruitment, providing career and interview advice to support your career.
• PS iLearn: Free CPD and bespoke SEND training in partnership with SEND training providers and senior leaders, to support your development.
• Jobs: We exclusively offer full-time long-term or permanent SEND roles.

How to Apply

If you are an experienced Teaching Assistant looking for an opportunity to make a genuine difference in a specialist autism and complex needs school, we would love to hear from you. With an ASAP start, flexible working options, and the opportunity to support pupils with a diverse range of needs, this could be your next step in SEND education.

Apply today to find out more and arrange an interview! Reach out to Jamie at Jamie@psinclusion.co.uk.