1:1 SEND Learning Support Assistant – Autism Support

Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Primary School, A Voluntary Academy; Leeds; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Primary School, a Voluntary Academy, is seeking a SEND Learning Support Assistant to work 1:1 with a pupil with complex needs including autism. The role is full-time and fixed-term, starting as soon as possible, in Leeds.

The post requires understanding of autism, excellent communication via non-verbal tools, and the ability to support a pupil across all environments with patience and initiative. A proactive approach to home-school liaison is essential.

Qualifications

• Understanding of Autism and ability to adapt tasks for severe cognitive delays, motor skills and sensory needs.
• Proficiency in using non-verbal communication tools—such as pictorial cues, signing, and pointing—and breaking down instructions into small steps.
• Ability to provide constant 1:1 supervision across all school environments.
• Patience to support a child who tires easily and to recognise distress and respond calmly.

Responsibilities

• Support the pupil on a 1:1 basis to access the curriculum and reach potential.
• Facilitate peer interactions and maintain daily communication between home and school.
• Implement EHCP targets and adapt daily learning to immediate needs.

Skills

Autism awareness

1:1 support

Non-verbal communication

Patience & calmness

Education

Level 3 Teaching Assistant

Tools

Pictorial cues

Sign language

Task breakdown

Job description

Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Primary School, a Voluntary Academy, is seeking a SEND Learning Support Assistant to work 1:1 with a pupil with complex needs including autism. The role is full-time and fixed-term, starting as soon as possible, in Leeds.

The post requires understanding of autism, excellent communication via non-verbal tools, and the ability to support a pupil across all environments with patience and initiative. A proactive approach to home-school liaison is essential.