SEN Support Worker (Autism & SEMH) - Blackburn

Tradewind Recruitment; Blackburn; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

Tradewind Recruitment LTD. is seeking a dedicated SEN Support Worker to join a specialist Blackburn school supporting pupils aged 5-16 with SEMH, autism, and communication challenges. The role focuses on creating a safe, engaging learning environment and promoting pupil well-being.

You'll provide focused 1:1 and small-group assistance, implement behaviour strategies, and work with teachers and therapists to help students reach personal goals while adhering to safeguarding policies.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children or young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN), focusing on Autism (ASC) and SEMH.
• Enhanced DBS certificate in place or willingness to apply for one immediately.
• Commitment to safeguarding and pupil welfare policies.

Responsibilities

• 1:1 and Small Group Support: Assist pupils with autism and SEMH needs during lessons, activities, and daily routines.
• Behavioural & Emotional Support: Implement de-escalation strategies, emotional regulation techniques, and positive behavior support plans to foster a calm learning environment.
• Engagement & Communication: Support students with communication difficulties using tailored approaches and visual aids to encourage active participation.
• Personalised Development: Work closely with teachers and therapists to help students progress toward their individual learning and social goals.
• Safeguarding: Maintain a vigilant approach to pupil welfare and safety in line with school policies.

Skills

SEN experience

Autism awareness

Trauma-informed practice

Behaviour management

Job description

SEN Support Worker (Autism & SEMH) - Blackburn

Location: Blackburn, Lancashire (Easily accessible via local transport links)

School Type: Specialist School - Supporting pupils aged 5-16 with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH), Autism (ASC), Cognition, Learning, and Communication Difficulties

Contract Type: Long-Term Supply to Permanent (Immediate/ASAP Start)

Pay Rate: £95 - £120 per day

Hours: Full-Time, Monday to Friday (School hours)

About the Role

We are currently recruiting a compassionate and dedicated SEN Support Worker to join a fantastic specialist school in Blackburn. This setting provides high-quality education and a nurturing environment for pupils aged 5 to 16 years who have diverse and complex needs, including social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) challenges, autism, and communication difficulties. The school is deeply committed to developing pupils as individuals, empowering them to overcome barriers, build confidence, and achieve their full potential. As an Autism and SEMH Support Worker, you will play a vital role in creating a safe, structured, and engaging learning atmosphere where students feel valued and supported.

Key Responsibilities

• 1:1 and Small Group Support: Assist pupils with autism and SEMH needs during lessons, activities, and daily routines.
• Behavioural & Emotional Support: Implement de-escalation strategies, emotional regulation techniques, and positive behavior support plans to foster a calm learning environment.
• Engagement & Communication: Support students with communication difficulties using tailored approaches and visual aids to encourage active participation.
• Personalised Development: Work closely with teachers and therapists to help students progress toward their individual learning and social goals.
• Safeguarding: Maintain a vigilant approach to pupil welfare and safety in line with school policies.

Candidate Requirements & Qualifications

Experience: Previous experience supporting children or young people with Special Educational Needs, specifically Autism (ASC), SEMH, or learning difficulties (ideal backgrounds include SEN Teaching Assistant, Support Worker, Care Worker, or Youth Worker).

Attributes: High levels of resilience, empathy, patience, and a calm, approachable demeanour.

Skills: A positive, proactive attitude with a strong understanding of trauma-informed practice or behaviour management strategies.

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