Experienced Autism-Focused SEN Teaching Assistant - Hounslow

Veritas Education Recruitment; Greater London; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

Veritas Education Recruitment is seeking an Autism-Focused SEN Teaching Assistant to join a specialist school in Hounslow. You will support pupils with autism and related needs, providing 1:1 and small-group assistance to maintain structured routines and positive learning experiences.

The ideal candidate has strong experience supporting autistic children or young people, excellent communication skills, and a calm, resilient approach. Full-time, term-time only with ASAP start.

Qualifications

• Requires strong, recent experience supporting children or young people with Autism.
• Experience in SEN schools or autism-focused settings is highly valued.
• Ability to communicate clearly and build trusting relationships.
• Calm, patient and highly resilient approach to support.
• Knowledge of structured routines, visual supports and sensory strategies is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support to autistic pupils.
• Support pupils inside and outside the classroom.
• Monitor progress and behaviour; support with communication and regulation.
• Work with teachers, therapists and families to implement plans.
• Create a calm, structured and supportive learning environment.

Skills

Autism experience

Communication skills

Calm and resilient

Education

No formal teaching qualification required

Job description

Experienced Autism-Focused SEN Teaching Assistant - Specialist School - Hounslow

Are you an experienced, patient and confident SEN Teaching Assistant with a strong background supporting children and young people with Autism?

We are currently recruiting for an Autism-Focused SEN Teaching Assistant to join a specialist school in Hounslow, supporting pupils with Autism and a range of additional special educational needs.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone with genuine experience working with autistic pupils who understands the importance of structure, consistency, communication and individualised support.

You will need to be calm, patient and adaptable, with the ability to build trusting relationships while providing clear boundaries and consistent support.

The Role

As an Autism-Focused SEN Teaching Assistant, you will:

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with Autism and additional needs.
• Support pupils both inside and outside of the classroom.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils and help them feel safe and supported.
• Support pupils with communication, emotional regulation, social interaction and independence.
• Use appropriate strategies to support pupils with Autism and sensory needs.
• Follow individualised learning, behaviour and support plans.
• Help pupils engage with learning through structured, visual and sensory-based approaches.
• Support pupils who may experience sensory overload, anxiety, emotional dysregulation or challenging behaviour.
• Use appropriate de-escalation and positive behaviour support strategies.
• Encourage pupils to develop confidence, independence and functional life skills.
• Work closely with teachers, SENCOs, therapists, families and other professionals.
• Monitor and record pupil progress, behaviour and wellbeing.
• Help maintain a calm, structured and supportive learning environment.

Who We're Looking For

We're particularly interested in candidates who have:

• Strong and recent experience supporting children or young people with Autism.
• Experience working within SEN schools, specialist provisions, autism settings, alternative provision or similar environments.
• A good understanding of Autism and how it can impact communication, behaviour, sensory processing and learning.
• Experience using visual supports, structured routines, sensory strategies or other autism-focused approaches.
• Confidence supporting pupils who may display challenging behaviour or emotional dysregulation.
• A calm, patient and highly resilient approach.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• The ability to establish clear boundaries while maintaining positive relationships.
• A proactive and flexible approach to supporting individual needs.
• Valid Child and Adult DBS essential.

Experience with PECS, Makaton, AAC, sensory integration approaches or other communication strategies would be highly desirable.

You don't necessarily need a formal teaching qualification. If you have strong, hands‑on experience working with autistic children or young people and are passionate about helping them develop and succeed, we would be keen to hear from you.

Why This Role?

• Full-time, term‑time only position.
• ASAP start.
• Specialist SEN school in Hounslow.
• Supportive and experienced staff team.
• Training and professional development opportunities.
• Opportunity to develop your experience within specialist Autism and SEN education.
• Work alongside experienced teachers, therapists and SEN professionals.
• A genuinely rewarding role where you can make a meaningful difference to pupils' lives.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR VERITAS EDUCATION

• All applications are subject to an Enhanced DBS Disclosure, professional reference checks, Overseas Police Clearances (if applicable) in line with our stringent safeguarding policy
• Your CV must cover the last 10 years of employment history where possible and all employment breaks must be explained
• You must have legal right to work in the UK
• You must be willing to attend a registration interview

Disclaimer

'Nothing within the above advert was in any way designed or intended to discriminate on the grounds of age, gender, race, colour, religion, disability or sexual orientation. Veritas Education is an Equal opportunities employer and is proud in the knowledge that all placements are made on merit and suitability. We accept applications from all sections of the community.'