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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
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.

Apply NowCreate Job Alert

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