SEN Support Worker (Autism & SEMH) - Blackburn

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

Job summary

Tradewind Recruitment LTD. is seeking a compassionate SEN Support Worker for a specialist school in Blackburn, Lancashire, catering to pupils aged 5–16 with SEMH, Autism, and communication needs. The role offers full-time hours, Monday to Friday, with a daily rate of £95–£120.

This long-term supply to permanent opportunity requires resilience, empathy, and a trauma-informed approach to help students access learning in a safe, supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children or young people with SEN, Autism (ASC) or SEMH.
• Must hold a valid Enhanced Child Workforce DBS registered on Update Service (or be willing to apply).
• Demonstrated resilience, empathy and patience in challenging environments.
• Strong trauma-informed approach or behaviour management strategies.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 or small group support during lessons and routines.
• Deliver behavioural and emotional support with de-escalation strategies.
• Assist with communication using visual aids and tailored approaches.
• Support personalised development with teachers and therapists.
• Maintain safeguarding and pupil welfare in line with policies.

Skills

Resilience

Empathy

Trauma-informed

Behaviour management

Tools

DBS Update Service

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).

Why Apply through Tradewind?

Career Opportunities: Long-term supply roles with genuine potential to transition into a permanent contract.

Dedicated Support: Receive expert guidance and support from a dedicated education recruitment consultant throughout your placement.

Make a Real Impact: Help vulnerable children and young people succeed in a supportive, specialist school environment.