Autism Support Assistant

GSL Education; Essex; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

GSL Education is seeking a Learning Support Assistant for a welcoming primary school in Harlow. The role provides 1:1 support to a pupil with autism on a full-time, long-term basis, starting as soon as possible.

You will work with the class teacher and the SEN team to help the pupil access the curriculum, stay engaged, and develop confidence both academically and socially.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children in a school or childcare setting.
• Calm, patient, and supportive approach.
• Ability to build strong relationships with pupils and staff.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one).

Responsibilities

• Providing dedicated 1:1 support to a pupil during lessons and classroom activities.
• Helping the pupil understand tasks and stay focused on learning.
• Encouraging confidence, independence, and positive participation.
• Supporting the child with daily classroom routines and transitions.
• Assisting the teacher in adapting activities so they are accessible for the pupil.
• Promoting positive behaviour and emotional wellbeing.
• Working closely with the class teacher and SENCO to ensure consistent support.

Skills

Experience with children

Patience and calm approach

Good communication

Teamwork

Relationship building with pupils

Education

DBS clearance (Enhanced)

Job description

Are you someone who enjoys supporting children and helping them build confidence in the classroom? A welcoming and well-regarded primary school in Harlow is looking for a Learning Support Assistant to join their team and provide 1:1 support for a pupil with autism on a full-time, long-term basis starting as soon as possible .

This is a fantastic opportunity to become part of a friendly school community where staff work closely together to ensure every child feels supported and able to reach their full potential. The school prides itself on its nurturing environment and strong focus on supporting pupils with additional needs.

About the Role

In this role, you will spend your day working closely with one pupil, helping them stay engaged in lessons and supporting them with their learning and daily routines in the classroom. You will work alongside the class teacher and the school’s SEN team to make sure the pupil feels comfortable, confident, and able to access the curriculum.

Every day will be slightly different, but the focus will always be on providing patient, consistent support and helping the child develop both academically and socially. Building a positive and trusting relationship with the pupil will be key to helping them thrive.

Your Day-to-Day Responsibilities

Providing dedicated 1:1 support to a pupil during lessons and classroom activities

Helping the pupil understand tasks and stay focused on learning

Encouraging confidence, independence, and positive participation

Supporting the child with daily classroom routines and transitions

Assisting the teacher in adapting activities so they are accessible for the pupil

Promoting positive behaviour and emotional wellbeing

Working closely with the class teacher and SENCO to ensure consistent support

What the School Is Looking For

Someone with experience working with children , ideally in a school or childcare setting

A calm, patient, and supportive approach

The ability to build strong relationships with pupils and staff

Good communication and teamwork skills

An Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one)

Why This Role Is a Great Opportunity

Join a supportive and welcoming primary school in Harlow

Play a key role in helping a pupil grow in confidence and succeed in school

A long-term, full-time position offering stability

Ongoing guidance and support from GSL Education

If you are looking for a rewarding role where you can genuinely make a difference to a child’s school experience, this could be the perfect opportunity.