Specialist LSA - Assistant Lead of ASC (Autism Support Centre Primary) in Harlow

Specialist LSA - Assistant Lead of ASC (Autism Support Centre Primary) in Harlow

Harlow Full-Time 21720 - 22720 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
The Downs Primary School and Nursery

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support autistic pupils' learning and development in a nurturing environment.
  • Company: Join the Passmores Co-operative Learning Community, dedicated to inclusion and support.
  • Benefits: Receive high-quality training, professional development, and work in a well-resourced environment.
  • Other info: Collaborative team atmosphere with opportunities for career progression.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of pupils with autism and support their growth.
  • Qualifications: Experience with autism and SEND, strong communication skills, and a commitment to inclusion.

The predicted salary is between 21720 - 22720 £ per year.

The Passmores Co-operative Learning Community (PCLC) is dedicated to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all pupils. We proudly host primary and secondary enhanced provisions for pupils with autism on behalf of Essex County Council. Our provisions are central to our commitment to inclusion; through an ethos of unconditional positive regard, we ensure every pupil is valued and supported to achieve their full potential. In Autumn 2026, the PCLC will open a second primary Autism Support Centre in West Essex, in collaboration with ECC. We are seeking a passionate and experienced practitioner to join the team of this new provision, working alongside the ASC Lead Teacher to make a meaningful difference to the lives of autistic pupils.

About the Role

We are seeking a committed and skilled Specialist Learning Support Assistant (LSA) to join our new Autism Support Centre (ASC), supporting pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This is a key role within the ASC team, supporting the delivery of a high-quality, inclusive and structured provision. You will work closely with the ASC Lead and SENCo to deliver targeted interventions, support learning, and promote pupils’ academic, social and emotional development. You will also play an important role in maintaining consistency across the provision, including supporting operational leadership and covering for the ASC Lead when required. Visits to our existing provision are warmly welcomed. To arrange a visit, and to meet with our Director of Primary Inclusion, Lucy Thomas, please contact HR on HR@pclc.co.uk.

Key Responsibilities

  • Support the delivery of high-quality, adaptive teaching and learning within the ASC
  • Deliver evidence-based, autism-specific programmes and approaches
  • Deliver targeted learning interventions (phonics, literacy, numeracy, fine motor, speech language & communication)
  • Support pupils to achieve their EHCP outcomes, including social, emotional and academic development
  • Assist pupils in developing mainstream readiness, including independence and organisation
  • Promote and support pupils’ access to and integration into mainstream classrooms
  • Work collaboratively with mainstream colleagues to support access, inclusion and integration
  • Build positive relationships with pupils, families and external professionals
  • Maintain accurate records of pupil progress and provision impact, including use of Neuroinclusive Education Network approaches

Leadership and Wider Responsibilities

  • Support the day-to-day running of the ASC, including deputising for the ASC Lead when required
  • Contribute to One Plans, annual reviews and assessment processes
  • Assist with resource preparation, classroom organisation and daily routines
  • Ensure all practice aligns with safeguarding and statutory requirements

What We Are Looking For

  • Experience working with children with autism and SEND
  • Understanding of autism-specific strategies and interventions
  • Ability to deliver structured interventions and support learning effectively
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • A proactive, flexible and reflective approach to supporting pupils’ needs
  • Commitment to inclusion, safeguarding and continuous improvement
  • A reflective and creative practitioner who is open to learning and values ongoing professional development
  • The ability to bring enthusiasm, professionalism and humility to the role

We Offer

  • A well‑resourced and supportive ASC environment
  • High‑quality training in autism‑specific practice
  • Opportunities for professional development and progression
  • A collaborative and dedicated team
  • A rewarding role making a real difference to pupils’ lives

33.5 Hours per week
39 working weeks / 44.7 paid weeks
Scale 5 Point 9 (range 9-12) - £21,720.70 per annum
Interviews: TBC

PCLC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced disclosure through the Disclosure Barring Service.

Specialist LSA - Assistant Lead of ASC (Autism Support Centre Primary) in Harlow employer: The Downs Primary School and Nursery

The Passmores Co-operative Learning Community (PCLC) is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for both staff and pupils. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from high-quality training in autism-specific practices and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of autistic pupils. Our collaborative work culture, combined with the opening of a new Autism Support Centre in West Essex, offers a unique chance to be part of a forward-thinking team that values every individual's contribution.

The Downs Primary School and Nursery

Contact Details:

The Downs Primary School and Nursery Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Specialist LSA - Assistant Lead of ASC (Autism Support Centre Primary) in Harlow

Experience working with children with autism and SEND
Understanding of autism-specific strategies and interventions
Ability to deliver structured interventions
Strong communication skills
Teamwork skills
Proactive approach to supporting pupils’ needs
Flexible and reflective approach