Learning Support Assistant (Early Years), Autism Specialist School, Full-Time

New Directions Group; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

New Directions Group is seeking a Learning Support Assistant for our Autism Specialist School in Shirley. The role supports autistic pupils aged 4–16, focusing on communication, learning access and personal development within a safe, nurturing setting.

You will work with teachers and therapists to deliver individual plans and track progress, fostering independence and social skills in a structured environment.

Qualifications

• Experience of supporting autistic children with complex needs.
• Strong understanding of autism and neurodiversity.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Patient, positive and child-centred approach.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils individually and in small groups to access personalised learning.
• Implement strategies to support communication, engagement, emotional regulation and positive behaviour.
• Assist with the delivery of a broad and engaging Early Years curriculum.
• Work closely with teachers and therapists to deliver individual support plans and targets.
• Observe, monitor and record pupil progress and achievements.
• Support pupils with personal care, feeding and physical needs where required.
• Create positive, trusting relationships that enable pupils to feel safe and secure.
• Adapt learning activities and environments to meet individual sensory and communication needs.
• Promote independence, social interaction and emotional wellbeing.
• Contribute to maintaining a positive, inclusive and nurturing school culture.

Skills

Autism support experience

Autism awareness

Communication skills

Teamwork

Patience and resilience

Education

Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification

EYFS knowledge

autism-specific training

Job description

Job Title: Learning support Assistant

School Type: Autism Specialist School

Age Range of Pupils: 4-5 years (School age range 4 to 16 years)

Location: Shirley (B90)

Hours: Full-time, 32.5 hours, (8:30am-3:30pm, Monday to Friday)

Contract Type: Long-term, Temp

Start Date: November 2026

About the Role

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Learning Support Assistant to join our Early Years team in our specialist autism provision. Working alongside teachers, therapists, and other professionals, you will support young autistic children with a range of complex needs to access learning, develop communication skills, build positive relationships, and achieve their individual outcomes.

You will play a vital role in creating a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment where children can develop confidence, independence, and a love of learning.

The Children You Will Support

Our pupils have a diagnosis of autism and may present with additional needs, including:

• Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN)
• Behaviour that challenges
• Sensory dysregulation
• Emotional dysregulation
• Social communication difficulties
• Delayed developmental milestones
• Learning disabilities and complex needs

Key Responsibilities

• Support pupils individually and in small groups to access personalised learning opportunities.
• Implement strategies and interventions to support communication, engagement, emotional regulation, and positive behaviour.
• Assist with the delivery of a broad and engaging Early Years curriculum.
• Work closely with teachers and therapists to deliver individual support plans and targets.
• Observe, monitor, and record pupil progress and achievements.
• Support pupils with personal care, feeding, and physical needs where required.
• Create positive, trusting relationships that enable pupils to feel safe and secure.
• Adapt learning activities and environments to meet individual sensory and communication needs.
• Promote independence, social interaction, and emotional wellbeing.
• Contribute to maintaining a positive, inclusive, and nurturing school culture.

About You

We are looking for a caring and resilient individual who has a genuine passion for supporting autistic children with complex needs.

Essential Requirements

• Experience of supporting autistic children with complex needs.
• Strong understanding of autism and neurodiversity.
• Experience supporting children with:
  • Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN)
  • Behaviour that challenges
  • Sensory dysregulation
  • Emotional dysregulation
• Ability to remain calm and responsive in challenging situations.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• A patient, positive, and child-centred approach.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or we can put one in place for you)
• Two satisfactory references covering a minimum of two years

Desirable Requirements

• Knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework.
• Understanding of child development and early childhood learning.
• Experience within a special school, autism provision, nursery, or Early Years setting.
• Training in autism-specific approaches, communication strategies, positive behaviour support, or sensory integration-informed practice.
• Relevant Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant, Childcare, or Education qualification.