Autism Teaching Assistant

Supply Desk; Southampton; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An educational staffing agency based in the UK seeks a dedicated Specialist Autism Teaching Assistant to join a secondary school in Southampton. This role supports students with autism through individualized and small-group interventions. The position offers a competitive daily rate of £88–£100, opportunities for ongoing training, and a supportive team environment. The successful candidate will contribute positively to the learning and development of secondary-aged students requiring additional support.

Benefits

Competitive daily rate

Full-time hours

Ongoing training and professional development

Contributory pension scheme

Make a meaningful difference

Qualifications

• Experience in a school or care setting supporting students with autism.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and confidentiality procedures.
• Enhanced DBS check will be required.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 support to students with autism.
• Support small groups during lessons and activities.
• Adapt learning materials to individual needs.
• Encourage independence and positive interactions.
• Collaborate with teachers to deliver personalized plans.
• Monitor student progress and maintain records.
• Promote a safe and inclusive learning environment.

Skills

Experience supporting students with autism or additional needs

Strong understanding of autism and ADHD

Excellent communication skills

Empathy and patience

Job description

Location: Southampton Area Start Date: Immediate / January 2026 Contract: Long-Term (with potential to become permanent) Institution: Secondary School – Learning Support Department Pay: £88–£100 per day

About the Role

We are looking for a dedicated Specialist Autism Teaching Assistant to join a secondary school in the Southampton area. This is a highly rewarding position supporting students with autism and additional needs through a mix of 1:1 work and small‑group interventions.

You will be part of the school’s Learning Support Department, working alongside an experienced and supportive SEND team who deliver tailored strategies to help students access learning and make meaningful progress. The role begins in January 2026, with the school open to offering a permanent contract to the right candidate.

About the School

The school is well‑established within the Southampton community and is recognised for its strong commitment to inclusion. Its Learning Support Department provides high‑quality, targeted support for students with a range of needs, including autism, ADHD, speech and language difficulties, and moderate learning challenges.

The school places great importance on ensuring that students with additional needs are fully included in mainstream education while receiving the specialist support required to thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• 1:1 support to students with autism and additional needs
• Support small groups of students during lessons and structured activities
• Adapt learning materials and approaches to meet individual needs
• Encourage independence, confidence, and positive social interactions
• Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, and support staff to deliver personalised learning plans
• Monitor student progress and maintain accurate records
• Promote a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment

Requirements

• Experience supporting students with autism or additional needs (school or care setting)
• Strong understanding of autism, ADHD, and associated learning or behavioural needs
• Patient, empathetic, and resilient approach
• Excellent communication skills with students, staff, and parents
• Knowledge of safeguarding and confidentiality procedures
• Enhanced DBS check (support available if required)

Benefits

• Competitive daily rate (£88–£100 depending on experience)
• Full‑time hours within a friendly and supportive team
• Opportunities for ongoing training and professional development
• Contributory pension scheme
• The chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of secondary‑aged students with autism

How to Apply

To apply, please visit www.supplydesk.co.uk. Due to high application volumes, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Refer a Friend

Refer a teacher or teaching assistant and earn up to £150 collectively. Contact us for more information.

Supply Desk is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check and adhere to Safer Recruitment standards throughout their employment.