Teaching Assistant - Autism/Complex Needs

Salary/Rate:£90 - £95

Job type:Contract

Town/City:Merton

County:South West London

Type of Role:Teaching Assistant/Learning Support Assistant

Job ref:9762

Post Date:13.06.25

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Meet Our Recruiter

Jamie Martinez

SEND Consultant

02030114848

jamie@psinclusion.co.uk

About the Role

Job Title: Teaching Assistant – Complex Needs & SLD
Location: Merton
Salary: £90 - £95
Contract Type: Full-time, Term-time only
Start Date: September 2025

About the Role

We are looking for a caring, resilient, and proactive Teaching Assistant to join our dedicated team, a specialist provision for children and young people aged 4 to 18 with autism, severe learning difficulties (SLD), communication challenges, and complex additional needs.

This is a rewarding opportunity to support pupils with unique learning profiles through a highly individualised and therapeutic approach to education, care, and communication.

Key Responsibilities

Support pupils with autism, SLD, and complex needs in accessing a broad, adapted curriculum tailored to their learning and sensory needs.
Work under the guidance of class teachers and therapy staff to deliver structured, sensory-based, and communication-focused activities.
Provide personal care, including toileting and feeding, in a way that promotes dignity, wellbeing, and independence.
Support the implementation of alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) methods such as PECS, Makaton, communication books, and electronic devices.
Assist in the creation of calm, low-arousal learning environments that support emotional regulation and minimise sensory overload.
Follow positive behaviour support plans, helping pupils manage dysregulation and develop coping strategies.
Safely assist pupils with physical movement, including hoisting and repositioning, following individual support plans and training.
Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, families, and other professionals to support holistic development.

Essential Requirements

Experience working with children or young people with autism, SLD, and/or complex needs.
A compassionate and patient approach, with the ability to build strong, trusting relationships.
Confidence and willingness to support with personal care and physical needs (training provided).
An understanding of or interest in communication support strategies and sensory-based teaching.
Ability to remain calm and consistent when supporting pupils with dysregulation or challenging behaviour.
Team-focused and adaptable, with excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Desirable (but not essential)

Experience with Makaton, PECS, or other AAC systems.
Knowledge of autism strategies and sensory processing approaches.
Relevant qualifications such as NVQ Level 2/3 in Teaching & Learning, Childcare, or Health and Social Care.
Team Teach or other positive behaviour support training.

What We Offer

A nurturing and experienced team committed to pupil-centred education.
Ongoing training and opportunities for development in SEND, autism support, and communication strategies.
A purposeful role where you can make a meaningful difference every day.
Supportive leadership and a strong ethos of wellbeing and inclusion.

To Apply: Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience to Jamie at PS Inclusion.

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