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- Tasks: Support pupils with autism and complex needs in a structured learning environment.
- Company: Specialist SEN school focused on individualised learning and emotional support.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with unique learning needs.
- Qualifications: Experience with autism, strong communication skills, and a calm, patient approach.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to inclusive education and personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 21500 - 24500 £ per year.
Location: Spalding, Lincolnshire
Role Type: Full-Time / Long-Term
Salary: £21,500 – £24,500 FTE
Start Date: ASAP
About the School
This role is based at a specialist SEN school in Spalding, Lincolnshire, supporting pupils with autism, complex learning needs, communication difficulties, and associated behavioural or sensory challenges. The school caters for children across primary and secondary age ranges, offering a highly structured, therapeutic learning environment. The school’s approach is centred on individualised learning, emotional regulation, and life skills development, recognising that many pupils require support beyond the academic curriculum. Staff work closely with therapists, behaviour specialists, and families to deliver consistent, personalised support. Class sizes are small, and pupils benefit from predictable routines, visual structure, and calm, low-arousal environments.
The Role
As a SEN Teaching Assistant (Autism & Complex Needs), you will provide daily support to pupils with significant additional needs. You will work closely with teachers and therapists to implement EHCP targets, behaviour plans, and communication strategies. This is a hands-on role requiring emotional resilience, flexibility, and a strong understanding of autism and complex needs. You will support learning, behaviour, communication, sensory regulation, and personal care where required.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide one-to-one and small group support for pupils with autism
- Implement EHCP and therapy-led strategies
- Support communication using visuals, symbols, and AAC tools
- Assist with emotional regulation and sensory needs
- Support learning activities adapted to developmental levels
- Assist with personal care and self-help skills
- Support transitions and unstructured times
- Record observations and contribute to progress reviews
- Work collaboratively with teachers and therapists
- Maintain safeguarding and health & safety standards
Person Specification
The successful candidate will:
- Have experience supporting pupils with autism and complex needs
- Be calm, patient, and emotionally resilient
- Understand behaviour as communication
- Be confident supporting challenging behaviour
- Have strong teamwork and communication skills
- Hold a SEN or TA qualification (desirable)
- Be committed to safeguarding and inclusive education
Professional Development & Support
- Autism and complex needs training
- Behaviour support and sensory integration workshops
- Ongoing supervision and mentoring
- Career progression into senior SEN roles
Safeguarding Statement
The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Enhanced DBS checks are required.
SEN Teaching Assistant (Autism & Complex Needs) employer: Marchant Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Marchant Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teaching Assistant (Autism & Complex Needs)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those working with SEN. Join relevant groups on social media or attend local events to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its approach to SEN. Understand their values and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. Show them you’re passionate about supporting pupils with autism and complex needs!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to behaviour management and emotional support. Use real-life examples from your experience to demonstrate your skills and understanding of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged in their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching Assistant (Autism & Complex Needs)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for supporting pupils with autism and complex needs.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Mention specific examples of how you've supported children with similar needs in the past – it’ll show us you’re the right fit!
Show Your Understanding: Demonstrate your knowledge of autism and complex needs in your application. We’re looking for candidates who understand behaviour as communication and can adapt their approach to meet individual needs.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Marchant Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand autism and complex needs inside out. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges these pupils face and how to support them effectively. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely passionate about the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences where you've supported pupils with autism or complex needs. Highlight any strategies you've used to implement EHCP targets or manage challenging behaviour. Real-life examples will demonstrate your capability and commitment to the role.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
This role requires collaboration with teachers, therapists, and families. Be prepared to discuss how you've worked as part of a team in previous roles. Share instances where your teamwork led to positive outcomes for pupils, showcasing your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's approach to emotional regulation or how they support staff development. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the school’s values align with yours.
