At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with Autism and mental health needs in a nurturing educational environment.
- Company: Specialist school in Maidenhead focused on autism and SEN support.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, full training provided, and hands-on experience.
- Other info: Collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team and grow your professional network.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Ideal for psychology, education, or health and social care graduates.
The predicted salary is between 23000 - 27000 £ per year.
Pay: £108 per day
Location: Maidenhead, Berkshire (commutable via Elizabeth Line, Great Western Railway, and local bus routes)
Start Date: 7th September 2026
Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 3:45pm, term time only
Training: Full education, training, and CPD provided
Are you a psychology, education, health and social care, speech and language, or child development graduate looking to build a rewarding career supporting children with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), SEN, and mental health needs? This Learning Support Assistant position offers an excellent opportunity to gain valuable hands‑on experience working with autistic and non‑verbal children, as well as those with social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs, in a specialist educational setting in Maidenhead.
You will support pupils with a range of additional needs, including autism, communication difficulties, sensory processing needs, complex learning differences, anxiety, trauma, and emotional dysregulation. Working alongside experienced teachers, therapists, and specialist support staff, you will help create a nurturing environment where every child can develop confidence, independence, and essential life skills.
The school provides a highly structured and supportive environment designed to meet the unique needs of autistic learners and those with mental health challenges. Through individualised learning plans, communication-focused strategies, sensory-informed approaches, and trauma-informed practice, pupils are empowered to achieve positive outcomes both academically and socially.
This role is ideal for graduates and aspiring professionals considering careers in educational psychology, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, SEN teaching, behaviour support, child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS), or clinical psychology.
The Role – A Stepping Stone into Autism, SEN, and Mental Health Support
This Learning Support Assistant role offers the opportunity to:
- Gain Specialist Autism & SEN Experience: Support autistic, non‑verbal, and SEMH pupils on a one‑to‑one and small‑group basis, developing a deep understanding of communication differences, sensory needs, and individual learning profiles.
- Support Mental Health & Emotional Wellbeing: Help pupils manage anxiety, low mood, emotional dysregulation, and trauma‑related behaviours, using calm, consistent, and trauma‑informed approaches.
- Develop Communication Strategies: Learn and implement a range of communication methods, including visual supports, PECS, Makaton, AAC devices, and other alternative communication systems.
- Support Emotional Regulation: Help pupils develop emotional awareness and self‑regulation skills through consistent routines, positive reinforcement, sensory-informed interventions, and therapeutic approaches.
- Work Within a Multi‑Disciplinary Team: Collaborate closely with teachers, SENCOs, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, mental health practitioners, and families to provide holistic support.
- Build Essential Professional Skills: Develop skills in behaviour support, communication facilitation, safeguarding, observation.
Aspiring Autism Specialist / Mental Health & SEN Support - Learning Support Assistant Maidenhead in Thatcham employer: AMA Admin
Milk Education is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic environment for aspiring Behaviour, Pastoral, or Cover Specialists in Bradford. With a focus on professional development and valuable classroom experience, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students while enjoying consistent hours and a positive school culture. Join us to build your career in education and contribute to a thriving community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Aspiring Autism Specialist / Mental Health & SEN Support - Learning Support Assistant Maidenhead in Thatcham
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at AMA Admin. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like AMA Admin.
We think you need these skills to ace Aspiring Autism Specialist / Mental Health & SEN Support - Learning Support Assistant Maidenhead in Thatcham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for AMA Admin:Take some time to research AMA Admin and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at AMA Admin
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for AMA Admin's values and approach.
