SEN Support Worker (Autism & PMLD)

Tradewind Recruitment LTD.; Penwortham; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

Tradewind Recruitment LTD. is seeking a dedicated SEN Support Worker for an immediate start in Preston, working across a SEN school to support pupils aged 2–19 with Autism and PMLD.

You will collaborate with teachers, therapists and care staff, providing personal care, 1:1/small group support, and assistive communication. DBS clearance is required; long-term supply with potential for permanent contract.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children or adults with SEN; Autism (ASC) or PMLD experience preferred.
• Must hold a valid Enhanced Child DBS registered to Update Service (or willing to apply).

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small group support during academic and sensory activities.
• Assist with personal care, manual handling, feeding and medical needs.
• Support alternative communication methods (PECS, Makaton, visual timetables).
• Deliver sensory circuits and therapeutic activities to aid regulation.
• Uphold safeguarding and pupil welfare per school policies.

Skills

Manual handling

Communication skills

Compassionate care

Job description

SEN Support Worker (Autism & PMLD) - Immediate Start

• Location: Preston & surrounding areas, Lancashire (Easily accessible via local transport links, M6, and bus routes)

• School Type: Special Educational Needs (SEN) School - Supporting pupils aged 3-19 with Autism (ASC) & Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD)

• Contract Type: Long-Term Supply leading to Permanent Contract

• Pay Rate: 95 - 120 per day (Competitive, dependent on experience)

• Hours: Full-Time, Monday to Friday (Standard school hours)

About the School

Are you looking for a rewarding career in special education? We are currently recruiting compassionate, dedicated SEN Support Workers and SEN Teaching Assistants for an outstanding Special Educational Needs school located in and around Preston, easily commutable from surrounding Lancashire areas.

This specialist setting provides a safe, highly tailored, and stimulating learning environment for children and young people aged 2 to 19. Students present with complex needs, including Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC) and Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD). The school prides itself on a holistic, person-centred approach, ensuring every pupil is supported to develop independence and reach their full potential.

SEN Support Worker

As an SEN Support Worker, you will play a vital role alongside teachers, specialists, and therapists to support the daily care, learning, and development of students. Because many pupils have specialised communication needs or physical disabilities, you will assist in delivering tailored sensory integration, communication therapies, and personal care routines.

Key Responsibilities:

• 1:1 and Small Group Support: Assist pupils with autism and PMLD during academic, creative, and physical/sensory activities.

• Personal Care & Medical Support: Assist students with personal care routines, manual handling, feeding, and medical needs as required (full specialist training provided).

• Communication & Engagement: Utilize alternative communication methods (such as PECS, Makaton, or visual timetables) to support students with non-verbal or limited communication skills.

• Sensory & Therapeutic Activities: Support the delivery of sensory circuits, hydrotherapy, and specialised therapy sessions designed to aid physical and emotional regulation.

• Safeguarding: Maintain a vigilant approach to safeguarding and pupil welfare in line with school policies and statutory guidelines.

Requirements & Qualifications

We want to hear from candidates with a background in education, care, or support work. Ideal applicants will possess:

Experience: Previous experience supporting children or adults with Special Educational Needs-specifically Autism (ASC), PMLD, complex medical needs, or physical disabilities. Ideal backgrounds include SEN Teaching Assistant, Support Worker, Care Worker, Residential Support Worker, or Youth Worker.

Skills: A practical, hands‑on approach with a willingness to learn specialised care techniques (such as manual handling and medical administration).

Compliance Vetting: Must hold a valid Enhanced Child Workforce DBS certificate registered on the Update Service (or be willing to apply for one immediately).

Why Apply?

• Long-term supply roles with genuine potential to transition into a permanent contract.
• Receive expert guidance and support from a dedicated education recruitment consultant throughout your placement.
• Help vulnerable children and young people succeed in a supportive, specialist school environment.