At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with autism in developing communication skills through engaging activities.
- Company: Specialist SEND school dedicated to nurturing and structured learning.
- Benefits: Full-time role with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Other info: Join a supportive team focused on creating a safe and engaging environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience with autism and communication needs; relevant qualifications preferred.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
About the role: This specialist SEND school on the outskirts of Lincoln supports children with autism as their primary need, many of whom are pre‐verbal or have emerging communication skills. The school provides a nurturing, structured environment focused on communication development, sensory‐friendly learning and personalised support. This is a full‐time role to begin ASAP.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support Communication Development by working closely with teaching staff and communication specialists to implement strategies such as Intensive Interaction, PECS, visual flashcards, Makaton (if applicable) and other alternative/augmentative communication methods.
- Help deliver highly structured and adapted activities, breaking tasks down into small, achievable steps and responding to each child's individual communication profile.
- Use Visual and Sensory Supports to prepare and use visual timetables, object cues, sensory tools and structured routines to support engagement and emotional regulation.
- Promote Positive Interaction and model and encourage purposeful, reciprocal communication through play‐based and child‐led approaches.
- Provide Calm, Consistent Support to create a predictable, low‐arousal environment and use gentle, responsive strategies to help children feel safe, connected and ready to learn.
Pre‐requisites:
- Experience supporting children with autism, communication needs or developmental delays (school, SEND setting, early years, play therapy, residential care or similar).
- Understanding of pre‐verbal or emerging communication needs, with confidence using visual tools, simple language, modelling and interactive approaches.
- Knowledge of communication‐based strategies such as Intensive Interaction, PECS, flashcards, visual supports or sensory‐based teaching.
- Relevant qualifications such as Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant, SEND training, childcare, or equivalent experience.
Communications Assistant - Lincoln employer: Just Teachers Ltd
As a Communications Assistant at our specialist SEND school in Lincoln, you will be part of a dedicated team that fosters a nurturing and structured environment for children with autism. We prioritise employee growth through ongoing training and support, ensuring you have the tools to make a meaningful impact on our students' communication development. Our inclusive work culture values collaboration and innovation, making it an excellent place for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of children.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Communications Assistant - Lincoln
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education and SEND sectors, especially those who work with communication development. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in action! If you have experience using strategies like PECS or Makaton, consider creating a short video or presentation demonstrating how you’ve used these methods effectively. It’s a great way to stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your approach! When you apply through our website, make sure to highlight your specific experiences that align with the role. Use keywords from the job description to show you’re the perfect fit.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to communication strategies and child engagement. We recommend role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your responses.
We think you need these skills to ace Communications Assistant - Lincoln
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with children who have autism and communication needs. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant examples!
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting children with communication challenges shine through! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely passionate about making a difference in these kids' lives, so share your motivation in your cover letter.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us understand your qualifications quickly!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Just Teachers Ltd
✨Know Your Communication Strategies
Familiarise yourself with communication methods like PECS, Makaton, and Intensive Interaction. Be ready to discuss how you've used these strategies in the past or how you would implement them in this role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your previous roles where you've supported children with autism or communication needs. Highlight your understanding of their unique profiles and how you've tailored your approach to meet their needs.
✨Demonstrate Your Adaptability
Be prepared to talk about how you can adapt activities to suit individual children's needs. Discuss your experience in breaking down tasks into manageable steps and using visual supports to enhance engagement.
✨Emphasise a Nurturing Approach
Communicate your ability to create a calm and supportive environment. Share examples of how you've built trusting relationships with children and how you model positive interactions through play-based learning.
