Autism Support Assistant

Axcis Education; Taunton; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

Axcis Education is seeking an Autism Support Assistant for a specialist SEN school in Taunton to provide 1:1 guidance and support for a Year 7 pupil with Autism. You will help with transitions, routines and emotional regulation, using visual schedules and communication aids like PECS or Makaton.

The role is full-time, term-time only, with a daily rate of £92–£109.16 and the potential for a permanent position.

Qualifications

• Has previous experience supporting pupils with Autism or complex needs.
• Confident using PECS or Makaton communication tools.
• Remains calm and consistent when managing behaviour or supporting dysregulation.
• Works effectively in a team and communicates clearly with staff and families.
• Holds an Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or is willing to apply.

Responsibilities

• Supporting the pupil during transitions and helping them settle into lessons.
• Using visual schedules, communication aids (PECS/Makaton), and sensory tools.
• Delivering calm, responsive support during moments of anxiety or emotional overload.
• Encouraging positive interaction during unstructured times such as breaks and lunch.
• Providing support during activities such as swimming, cooking, and outdoor learning.
• Monitoring progress and behaviour, reporting regularly to teachers and families.

Skills

Autism support

Teamwork

Behaviour management

Communication tools PECS/Makaton

Job description

Role: Autism Support Assistant – SEN School. Location: Taunton. Daily Rate: £92 - £109.16. Hours: 8:15am - 3:30pm, Monday to Friday, term time only. Start date: 2nd June. Contract: Full-time, with the possibility of a permanent position.

Axcis Education is delighted to be working with a specialist SEN school in Taunton, which is currently seeking a dedicated and experienced support assistant to provide 1:1 guidance and support for a Year 7 student with Autism.

Role Overview

This is a dynamic and relationship-focused role supporting a pupil with Autism who requires a consistent and structured approach to thrive throughout the school day. You'll play an essential role in their daily routines, learning, and emotional regulation.

• Supporting the pupil during transitions and helping them settle into lessons
• Using visual schedules, communication aids (PECS/Makaton), and sensory tools
• Delivering calm, responsive support during moments of anxiety or emotional overload
• Encouraging positive interaction during unstructured times such as breaks and lunch
• Providing support during activities such as swimming, cooking, and outdoor learning
• Monitoring progress and behaviour, reporting regularly to teachers and families

About the School

This well-resourced special school caters to children and young people aged 4 to 19 with a variety of learning difficulties and additional needs. The school takes pride in its inclusive ethos and strong sense of teamwork, with a focus on preparing pupils for life beyond the classroom.

• An on-site smallholding with chickens
• Fully equipped playgrounds and sensory spaces
• A swimming pool and life skills classrooms

We’re looking for someone who

• Has previous experience supporting pupils with Autism or complex needs
• Is confident using communication tools such as PECS or Makaton
• Can remain calm and consistent when managing behaviour or supporting dysregulation
• Works effectively in a team and communicates clearly with staff and families
• Holds an Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or is willing to apply

Why Join Axcis?

• Competitive daily pay at £89
• Ongoing training and CPD opportunities
• Friendly, expert consultants to guide you through the process
• A real opportunity to make an impact in a child’s life

Axcis is an equal opportunities employer and as such we do not discriminate based on age, gender, disability, race or any other equal opportunities criteria.

The company is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As such, you will be required to provide an up to date DBS, or be prepared to allow Axcis to process one on your behalf, in addition to other mandatory compliance checks in line with the DfE guidelines (for details please see our website).

If the position you are applying for involves working with children or vulnerable adults, this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974.

You must be suitably qualified for the position advertised and be prepared to attend a face to face interview with Axcis to demonstrate your suitability for this role.

Salary / Pay Rate will be dependent on your skills and experience.

This is a temporary position, unless stated otherwise.

Axcis Education is an employment agency offering temporary supply work for daily, short-term and long-term assignments in addition to permanent positions.

Contact: Sancha Clark
0117 472 2400 l Ext: 2016