At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people with severe autism and complex learning needs in a structured classroom.
- Company: A highly regarded independent Specialist School in Chorley.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, great work-life balance, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Small class sizes and a dedicated team of experts to support your growth.
- Why this job: Make a genuine impact on students' lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with severe autism and non-verbal communication is essential.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Location: Chorley Area (Lancashire)
Salary: £95.89 - £115.89 per day Dependent on Experience
Contract: Full-Time (5 Days per Week)
Hours: 8:30 am - 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday (Term-Time Only)
Job Type: Temporary to Permanent
Are you an experienced SEN Teaching Assistant looking for a rewarding role where you can make a genuine impact? We are recruiting for a highly regarded, independent Specialist School in the Chorley area. The school provides exceptional education and care for young people aged 6-19 who have mild, moderate, and severe autism (ASC), alongside associated complex learning needs.
We are specifically seeking a dedicated and resilient individual with proven experience supporting pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and those who are Non-Verbal. If you have a passion for alternative communication and tailored support, this consistent Monday-to-Friday role is perfect for you.
Key Responsibilities as an SEN TA:- Support pupils aged 6-19 with severe autism and complex learning needs within a structured classroom environment.
- Work closely with non-verbal pupils, utilising communication tools such as PECS, Makaton, or AAC devices to ensure their voices are heard.
- Deliver highly individualised learning interventions tailored to pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD).
- Foster a calm, safe, and positive environment, using proactive strategies to support sensory regulation and positive behaviour.
- Assist with life skills, social integration, and personal care where required, always maintaining the pupil's dignity.
- Experience: Essential experience working with children or young people with severe autism, SLD, and non-verbal communication needs.
- Skills: Proficiency in alternative communication methods (e.g., Makaton, PECS) and a strong understanding of autism-specific communication barriers.
- Attributes: A patient, empathetic, and highly adaptable approach. You must be resilient and passionate about celebrating small steps of progress.
- Availability: Ability to commit to a full-time schedule, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday.
- Work within a specialist independent setting with excellent resources and small class sizes.
- Enjoy great hours (8:30 am - 3:30 pm), providing an enviable work-life balance.
- Benefit from a supportive team of experts, including specialist teachers and therapists, with opportunities for ongoing professional development.
- Conveniently located in Chorley, easily accessible from Preston, Leyland, Blackburn, and the wider Lancashire area.
How to Apply: If you have the experience and dedication required for this specialist position in Chorley, please click 'Apply Now' or submit your CV directly to (url removed) or call (phone number removed).
Please Note: This position is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory safeguarding references.
SEN Teaching Assistant (Autism & SLD Specialist) in Chorley employer: Tradewind Recruitment
Join a highly regarded independent Specialist School in the Chorley area, where you can make a genuine impact on the lives of young people with severe autism and complex learning needs. Enjoy a supportive work culture with excellent resources, small class sizes, and opportunities for ongoing professional development, all while maintaining a great work-life balance with hours from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday. This role not only offers competitive pay but also the chance to be part of a dedicated team committed to celebrating every small step of progress.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teaching Assistant (Autism & SLD Specialist) in Chorley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEN. They might know of openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEN roles. Think about your experiences with autism and SLD, and how you can showcase your skills in communication methods like Makaton or PECS.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, share your enthusiasm for supporting non-verbal pupils and your commitment to fostering a positive learning environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed, and we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in making a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching Assistant (Autism & SLD Specialist) in Chorley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience with SEN, especially with severe autism and SLD. We want to see how you've supported non-verbal pupils and used communication tools like PECS or Makaton.
Craft a Personal Statement:In your personal statement, share your passion for working with children with complex needs. We love hearing about your approach to fostering a calm and positive environment, so let that shine through!
Showcase Relevant Skills:List any specific skills you have that relate to the role, such as your proficiency in alternative communication methods. We’re looking for someone adaptable and patient, so highlight those traits!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on board to make a difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tradewind Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of autism and severe learning difficulties. Familiarise yourself with communication methods like PECS and Makaton, as well as the specific needs of non-verbal pupils. This will show that you're not just passionate but also well-informed.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience working with children who have severe autism or SLD. Think of specific examples where you've made a difference, especially in supporting non-verbal communication. Real-life stories can really resonate with interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Patience
During the interview, convey your empathetic approach and patience when working with pupils. You might be asked situational questions, so be ready to explain how you would handle challenging behaviours or support a pupil's emotional needs.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the school’s approach to supporting pupils with SLD and autism. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.
