SEN EYFS Teaching Assistant

senploy; Manchester; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

Educato is partnering with a welcoming primary school in Crumpsall to recruit an EYFS Autism Support SEN Teaching Assistant. You will join the Early Years team, supporting children with autism and additional needs to develop communication, social skills, confidence and independence in a nurturing learning environment.

The school uses a child-centered approach, with structured routines, visual resources, sensory activities and positive reinforcement to promote learning, wellbeing and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Experience with autism and SEN in EYFS, nursery or primary setting.
• Familiarity with TEACCH/visual supports and routines is desirable.
• Willingness to obtain Enhanced DBS if needed.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-to-one and small group support for autistic children and those with additional needs in EYFS.
• Support communication, social interaction, and language development through play and structured activities.
• Use visual timetables, now-and-next boards and other aids to support independence.
• Help manage sensory needs, emotional regulation, and transitions throughout the day.
• Collaborate with class teacher, SENCO and support staff to implement learning plans.

Skills

Autism support

SEN knowledge

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Level 3 Teaching Assistant

Job description

Are you a patient, caring, and enthusiastic Teaching Assistant with a passion for supporting children with autism and additional needs in their early years of education?

Educato is currently partnering with a welcoming and supportive primary school in Crumpsall that is seeking a dedicated EYFS Autism Support SEN Teaching Assistant to join their Early Years team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about inclusive education and helping young children with autism develop their communication, social skills, confidence, and independence in a nurturing learning environment.

This friendly primary school is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where every child is encouraged to reach their full potential. The Early Years setting recognises that every child has unique needs and provides tailored support to help children with autism and special educational needs access learning in a way that suits them.

The school promotes a child centred approach, using structured routines, visual resources, sensory activities, and positive reinforcement to support children's learning, communication, and emotional wellbeing. Staff work closely together to ensure pupils receive consistent, individualised support and feel safe, valued, and included throughout the school day.

Key responsibilities

• Provide one-to-one and small group support for children with autism and additional needs within the EYFS setting.


• Support children's communication, social interaction, and language development through play-based learning and structured activities.


• Use visual timetables, now-and-next boards, and other communication aids to support understanding and independence.


• Help children manage sensory needs, emotional regulation, and transitions throughout the school day.


• Encourage participation in classroom activities while adapting tasks to meet individual learning needs.


• Support the development of early literacy, numeracy, social skills, and independence.


• Work closely with the class teacher, SENCO, and other support staff to implement individual learning and support plans.


• Promote positive behaviour using a patient, consistent, and nurturing approach.


• Maintain a safe, calm, and stimulating learning environment that supports children's individual needs.


• Observe and record children's progress, sharing relevant information with the class teacher and wider team.


• Build positive relationships with pupils, colleagues, and parents to ensure consistent support.

Key requirements

• Previous experience supporting children with autism, additional needs, or SEN within an EYFS, nursery, or primary school setting.


• A Level 3 Teaching Assistant, Early Years, or relevant childcare qualification is preferred.


• A good understanding of autism, early childhood development, and the EYFS Framework.


• Experience using visual supports, structured routines, sensory activities, or communication strategies is desirable.


• A patient, empathetic, and nurturing approach to supporting children with diverse learning needs.


• Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with teachers and SEN professionals.


• The ability to remain calm, flexible, and positive when responding to individual needs and changing situations.


• An Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or willingness to apply for a new one.


• Reliability, commitment, and a genuine passion for helping children with additional needs thrive.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young children with autism, helping them feel secure, develop essential life skills, and enjoy a positive start to their education.