Autism Support Worker

GSL Education; Essex; On-site; GBP 14,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

GSL Education are recruiting an Autism Support Worker to work in a specialist SEN school in Chelmsford. This role suits experienced workers who can help pupils with autism access learning and develop communication skills.

You will provide 1:1 and small-group support, implement individual strategies, and work with teachers and staff to create a safe, structured environment. A DBS check and safeguarding knowledge are required.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children or young people with autism in school, care or support settings.
• Ability to provide 1:1 support and help pupils access classroom activities.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection, DBS checks required.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with autism.
• Support pupils with communication, social interaction, emotional regulation and independence.
• Implement individual support strategies and visual communication techniques.
• Collaborate with teachers and support staff to create a safe, engaging learning environment.

Skills

Autism support

1:1 support

Social interaction

Communication skills

Job description

Location: Chelmsford
Salary Scale: £92++ per day, depending on experience
Start Date: ASAP
End Date: Ongoing
Contract Type: Long Term, Full-time

Are you passionate about supporting children with autism and helping them thrive in a specialist SEN school environment?

About the role

GSL Education are currently recruiting an Autism Support Worker to work within a specialist SEN school in Chelmsford. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Autism Support Worker, Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant or Support Worker looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children with additional needs.

As an Autism Support Worker, you will provide tailored support to pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), helping them access learning, develop communication skills and build confidence and independence in a structured, nurturing environment.

About the School

The specialist SEN school provides a supportive and inclusive learning environment for pupils with additional needs. The school focuses on understanding each pupil's individual strengths and challenges, promoting positive behaviour and ensuring every child receives the personalised support they need to progress academically, socially and emotionally.

Autism Support Worker role

The successful Autism Support Worker will work closely with pupils throughout the school day, providing 1:1 and small-group support to help them engage with learning and manage daily routines. Working alongside teachers and other support staff, you will implement individual support strategies, encourage communication and help pupils feel safe, comfortable and confident within the school environment.

We are looking for someone who is patient, compassionate and confident in adapting their approach to meet the needs of pupils with autism.

The successful candidate will:

• Have experience supporting children or young people with autism, ASD or additional needs in a school, care or support setting.
• Be confident providing 1:1 support and helping pupils access classroom activities within a specialist SEN school.
• Support pupils with communication, social interaction, emotional regulation and independence.
• Understand the importance of structure, routine and visual communication strategies when supporting children with autism.
• Help pupils manage sensory needs and encourage positive behaviour through a calm, consistent and understanding approach.
• Build positive relationships with pupils, teachers and support staff to ensure a safe and engaging learning environment.
• Demonstrate patience, resilience and a genuine commitment to helping pupils overcome barriers to learning.

Experience supporting non-verbal pupils, managing sensory needs or using alternative communication methods would be advantageous. Applications from candidates with transferable experience in care, childcare or support work are also welcome.

Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection. Successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks, including providing an enhanced DBS on the update service or completing an application for a new check.

We also offer, via our partner, access to accredited education-relevant CPD courses.

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