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- Tasks: Support post-16 learners with autism and complex communication needs in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Forward-thinking SEN school in Leeds dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, ongoing training, and a supportive team atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young adults' lives and help them gain essential skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEND or communication challenges; calm and empathetic approach required.
- Other info: Ideal for graduates in psychology, criminology, or related fields.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 24000 £ per year.
Location: Leeds (easily commutable from Wakefield, Bradford BD2, Dewsbury & surrounding areas)
Pay: £101.40 – £120 per day
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30am–3:30pm
Start Date: 23rd February
Make a Real Difference for Post-16 Learners with Autism & Complex Needs
Are you passionate about supporting young adults with complex communication needs, autism, and additional learning challenges? We’re recruiting a SEND Support Worker for a forward-thinking SEN school in Leeds, working with post-16 students. This is a highly rewarding role for someone committed to helping learners build confidence, independence, and essential life skills, preparing them for life beyond school.
About the Role
The Particular Pathway delivers an individualised, experiential curriculum for learners with Autism and complex communication needs, focusing on:
- Communication development using Total Communication strategies, SCERTS, and the Engagement Model
- Independence, life skills, and community inclusion
- Health, wellbeing, and emotional regulation
- Experiential, sensory-based learning in familiar, structured environments
- Planning is holistic and needs-led, with EHCP outcomes central to all activities
- A mix of adult-led and learner-initiated sessions ensures engagement and meaningful progress
- Some learners may access integrated enrichment
What You’ll Be Doing
- Supporting learners 1:1 or in small groups with autism and complex communication needs
- Assisting with the delivery of structured, experiential learning activities
- Helping pupils develop independence, confidence, and functional communication
- Supporting emotional regulation and promoting positive behaviours
- Using sensory strategies and communication tools (Makaton, PECS, symbols) to enhance engagement
- Collaborating with teachers, therapists, and senior staff to deliver individualised learning plans
- Team Teach experience is desirable but not essential
What We’re Looking For
- Experience supporting learners with SEND, autism, or communication challenges
- A calm, patient, and empathetic approach
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Commitment to a full-time, term-time position (Monday–Friday, 8:30–3:30)
- Open to candidates with backgrounds in SEN, youth work, social care, psychology, criminology, or support work
Why Join Us
- Long-term, full-time role in a supportive, highly specialised SEN setting
- Ongoing CPD and training, including communication strategies, sensory regulation, and behaviour support
- Work in a structured, nurturing environment with experienced staff
- Make a tangible impact on learners’ independence, communication, and life skills
Ideal For
- Experienced Learning Support Assistants
- Graduates in Psychology, Criminology, Education, or related fields
- Support workers looking to transition into education
- Anyone passionate about autism, communication, and post-16 SEND provision
Apply Today
If you’re ready to transform lives and support post-16 learners to reach their full potential, we’d love to hear from you. CLICK APPLY NOW or Contact Samuel Agbana.
SEND Support Worker (Post-16, Autism & Complex Communication) in Leeds employer: Milk Education
Contact Detail:
Milk Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Support Worker (Post-16, Autism & Complex Communication) in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education and SEND sectors. Attend local events or workshops, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have a lead on a job that’s perfect for you!
✨Tip Number 2
Get your hands dirty with some volunteering! Gaining experience in a similar role can really boost your chances. Plus, it shows potential employers that you’re committed to making a difference in the lives of learners with autism and complex needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEND support. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the role. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love hearing from passionate candidates who want to make a real impact in the SEND community!
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Support Worker (Post-16, Autism & Complex Communication) in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with SEND, autism, and communication challenges. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant skills!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for supporting young adults with complex needs shine through in your application. We’re looking for candidates who are genuinely passionate about making a difference, so share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and gets straight to the heart of why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to make your application stand out.
How to prepare for a job interview at Milk Education
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of learners with autism and complex communication challenges. Understand the Total Communication strategies and the Engagement Model mentioned in the job description. This will show your genuine interest and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past experiences that highlight your ability to support learners with SEND. Whether it's through previous roles or relevant studies, be ready to discuss how you've helped individuals develop independence and confidence.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Patience
During the interview, convey your calm and patient approach when working with young adults facing challenges. Share anecdotes that illustrate your empathetic nature and how you’ve successfully managed emotional regulation in others.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the school's approach to individualised learning plans and how they incorporate sensory strategies. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your values and methods.
