Autism Support Assistant

Academics; Salisbury; On-site; GBP 16,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

Academics in Salisbury, Wiltshire is seeking an Autism Support Assistant to help children aged 5-16 with Autism and related needs, working with teachers and SEN professionals to support learning and development.

You will provide tailored, one-to-one and small-group support, helping access lessons, develop communication and social skills, and foster independence in a calm, structured environment. Graduates and aspiring professionals are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• Previous experience within a specialist educational setting would be an advantage, but it is not essential.
• You will be patient, compassionate, adaptable and genuinely motivated to support children with Autism and additional needs.
• Ability to build positive relationships and maintain a calm, encouraging approach is key.

Responsibilities

• Providing one-to-one and small-group support in the classroom and across the wider school environment.
• Helping children access lessons and take part in educational and practical activities.
• Encouraging children to communicate their thoughts, feelings and individual needs.
• Supporting the development of social skills and positive relationships.
• Providing calm reassurance when children experience emotional or sensory challenges.
• Encouraging independence through daily routines, structured activities and learning opportunities.
• Helping children develop confidence, resilience and essential life skills.
• Following individual support plans and applying appropriate strategies consistently.
• Working alongside teachers, therapists and SEN professionals to encourage children's progress.
• Contributing to a positive, structured and inclusive learning environment.

Job description

Are you passionate about supporting children with additional needs and helping them develop confidence, independence and communication skills? Are you considering a future career in psychology, education, therapy or special educational needs and looking for valuable practical experience?

A specialist school in Salisbury, Wiltshire is seeking a caring, enthusiastic and dedicated Autism Support Assistant to join its supportive team. You will work closely with experienced teachers and specialist professionals to support children aged 5-16 with Autism, communication needs, sensory differences and a range of additional learning requirements.

The Role

As an Autism Support Assistant, you will provide tailored support to help children feel safe, understood and confident throughout their school day.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing one-to-one and small-group support in the classroom and across the wider school environment.
• Helping children access lessons and take part in educational and practical activities.
• Encouraging children to communicate their thoughts, feelings and individual needs.
• Supporting the development of social skills and positive relationships.
• Providing calm reassurance when children experience emotional or sensory challenges.
• Encouraging independence through daily routines, structured activities and learning opportunities.
• Helping children develop confidence, resilience and essential life skills.
• Following individual support plans and applying appropriate strategies consistently.
• Working alongside teachers, therapists and SEN professionals to encourage children's progress.
• Contributing to a positive, structured and inclusive learning environment.

About You

Previous experience within a specialist educational setting would be an advantage, but it is not essential. We are looking for someone who is patient, compassionate, adaptable and genuinely motivated to support children with Autism and additional needs.

You will need to be comfortable building positive relationships and understand the importance of a calm, consistent and encouraging approach. Being able to recognise that every child has different strengths, communication styles and support requirements will be key to succeeding in this role.

This opportunity would be particularly suitable for graduates and aspiring professionals interested in careers such as:

• Educational Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Occupational Therapy
• Speech and Language Therapy
• Teaching
• Counselling
• Special Educational Needs (SEN)
• Child Development and Support

The role will allow you to develop practical experience in Autism support, sensory needs, communication, behaviour strategies and specialist education.

Why Apply?

• 85- 110 per day, depending on experience.
• Gain direct experience supporting children with Autism and additional needs.
• Develop valuable communication, behaviour support and relationship-building skills.
• Learn from experienced teachers, therapists and SEN professionals.
• Gain insight into specialist education and personalised support.
• Strengthen your experience for future careers in psychology, therapy, education and children's services.
• Make a meaningful contribution to children's development, confidence and wellbeing.

Supporting children with additional needs is incredibly rewarding, with every day bringing new opportunities to encourage development and celebrate individual achievements.

Whether you have previous experience working with children or are a graduate looking to begin your career in specialist education, this Autism Support Assistant role in Salisbury, Wiltshire offers the chance to gain valuable experience while making a genuine difference.

If you are caring, patient and enthusiastic about helping children with Autism thrive, we would love to hear from you.

Salary will be determined by the successful candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, and will be in accordance with the client's pay policy.