Autism Teaching Assistant

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

Job summary

An educational staffing agency is seeking a Specialist Autism Teaching Assistant to work full-time in a secondary school in the Southampton area. This rewarding position involves providing individual and group support to students with autism and additional needs. You will collaborate with a dedicated team and contribute to a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Competitive pay, ongoing training opportunities, and a chance to make a meaningful difference in students' lives are offered.

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

Qualifications

• Experience in a school or care setting supporting students with autism.
• Patient, empathetic, and resilient approach.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and confidentiality procedures.

Responsibilities

• Provide 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.

Skills

Experience supporting students with autism or additional needs

Strong understanding of autism, ADHD, and associated learning or behavioural needs

Excellent communication skills with students, staff, and parents

Job description

Specialist Autism Teaching Assistant (Full Time)

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

• Provide 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 (url removed). 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.

Safeguarding Commitment

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