At a Glance
- Tasks: Support autistic and SEN pupils, helping them thrive academically and emotionally.
- Company: Join a 5-star rated agency with exclusive partnerships in Maidenhead.
- Benefits: Earn £108 per day, enjoy flexible hours, and access free CPD courses.
- Other info: Receive ongoing support and training in a dynamic educational environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Passion for autism and mental health; experience with children is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 23000 - 27000 £ per year.
Start Date: 7th September 2026
Pay: £108 per day
Location: Maidenhead, Berkshire (commutable via Elizabeth Line, Great Western Railway, and local bus routes)
Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 3:45 pm, term time only
Training: Full education, training, and CPD provided
This Learning Support Assistant role offers an excellent opportunity to gain 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. 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 academically and socially.
The Role – A Stepping Stone into Autism, SEN and Mental Health Support
- Gain Specialist Autism & SEN Experience: Support autistic, non-verbal and SEMH pupils one-to-one and in small groups, developing a deep understanding of communication differences, sensory needs and individual learning profiles.
- Support Mental Health & Emotional Well-being: Help pupils manage anxiety, low mood, emotional dysregulation and trauma-related behaviours, using calm, consistent, trauma-informed approaches.
- Develop Communication Strategies: Learn and implement visual supports, PECS, Makaton, AAC devices and other alternative communication systems.
- Support Emotional Regulation: Facilitate 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, record-keeping, person-centred planning and mental health first aid.
- Advocate for Inclusion: Support autistic, SEN and mentally vulnerable children to access learning, build independence and achieve their individual goals.
Candidate Profile
- Strong interest in Autism, Special Educational Needs (SEN), mental health, communication support or child development.
- Degree in psychology, education, health and social care, speech and language studies, sociology or a related field desirable but not essential.
- Previous experience working with children, young people or individuals with additional needs or mental health challenges advantageous but not required.
- Patience, resilience, empathy and a calm approach when supporting children with varying communication styles, sensory needs and emotional challenges.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a genuine passion for helping children reach their full potential.
- Proactive attitude and willingness to learn within a specialist educational environment.
- Reliable commute to Maidenhead – the school is well-served by the Elizabeth Line, Great Western Railway and local bus routes from surrounding areas.
Benefits to You
- Excellent pay – £108 per day.
- Fast-track registration process.
- Flexible working opportunities during term time.
- 5-star rated agency with a strong reputation.
- Exclusive partnerships with schools and trusts across Maidenhead and Berkshire.
- FREE access to the Perks Portal offering discounts similar to the Blue Light Card.
- Access to 1,000+ accredited and discounted CPD courses through Milk Academy.
- FREE PSHE lesson plans and classroom resources created by qualified teachers.
- FREE Educator Well-being eBook and access to a wellbeing hub, including CPD and fitness modules.
- School Preparation Pack to support you ahead of placements.
- 24/7 support from a dedicated personal consultant.
- Access to the Unbottled programme, featuring lived-experience speakers on mental health, discrimination and exploitation.
- Join the UK’s only eco-friendly education supply agency.
Safeguarding
Milk Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We are APSCo Compliance+ accredited and all applicants will undergo thorough background checks in line with DfE, Keeping Children Safe in Education and APSCo guidelines.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Apply today for the 7th September 2026 start date and become an advocate for autistic, SEN and vulnerable children in Maidenhead.
Aspiring Autism Specialist / Mental Health & SEN Support – Learning Support Assistant Maidenhead employer: Milk Education
Milk Education is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of Liverpool. With significant progression pathways, generous incentives, and a supportive environment, we empower our team to thrive in their careers while enjoying a healthy work-life balance with 23 days off annually plus bank holidays.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Aspiring Autism Specialist / Mental Health & SEN Support – Learning Support Assistant Maidenhead
✨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 Milk Education. 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 Milk Education.
We think you need these skills to ace Aspiring Autism Specialist / Mental Health & SEN Support – Learning Support Assistant Maidenhead
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 Milk Education:Take some time to research Milk Education 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 Milk Education
✨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 Milk Education's values and approach.
