Teaching Assistant (PMLD / SEMH / ASD)

Pertemps Education Network; Sutton; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational network is seeking a SEN Teaching Assistant to provide high-quality support for pupils with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties, Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs, and Autism Spectrum Condition. The successful candidate will assist with personal care and deliver tailored learning strategies. This full-time position offers opportunities for ongoing training and development in a nurturing environment. An ideal candidate will possess patience, resilience, and a commitment to inclusive practice.

Benefits

Ongoing training in complex needs

Supportive SEN leadership team

Well-resourced learning environment

Qualifications

• Experience in a special school or 4-19 setting is desirable.
• Training in Team Teach, MAPA, or Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) preferred.
• Knowledge of sensory integration strategies is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support for pupils with complex needs.
• Assist pupils with personal care, feeding, and mobility.
• Work collaboratively with teachers and therapists.

Skills

Experience supporting children or young people with PMLD, SEMH, and/or ASD

Calm, patient, and resilient approach to challenging behaviour

Strong communication skills

Job description

SEN Teaching Assistant (PMLD / SEMH / ASD)

Location: Surbiton, South West London

School Type: 4-19 Special Educational Needs School

Contract: Full-time / Term-time

Start Date: ASAP

Purpose of the Role

To provide high-quality, personalised support to pupils aged 4-19 with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs (SEMH), and Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC/ASD). The role focuses on enabling pupils to access learning, develop communication and independence skills, and thrive within a safe, structured, and nurturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Pupil Support (PMLD / SEMH / ASD Focus)

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support for pupils with complex needs, including PMLD, SEMH, and ASD
• Support pupils with personal care, feeding, toileting, and mobility where required
• Assist pupils with sensory processing needs, including sensory regulation activities
• Use positive behaviour support and de-escalation strategies to manage challenging behaviour safely
• Support pupils with emotional regulation, social interaction, and communication
• Deliver interventions outlined in pupils' EHCPs and behaviour support plans

Communication & Learning Support

• Use AAC strategies, including Makaton, PECS, symbols, visual timetables, and assistive technology
• Support access to a sensory-based and differentiated curriculum
• Encourage engagement through play-based, functional, and life-skills learning
• Promote independence while providing appropriate physical and emotional support

Classroom & Pastoral Support

• Assist the class teacher with lesson delivery and classroom organisation
• Support pupils during transitions, breaktimes, and unstructured periods
• Build strong, trusting relationships with pupils, offering consistent routines and reassurance
• Monitor and record progress, behaviours, and wellbeing

Multi-Disciplinary Working

• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists (speech and language, occupational therapy), and pastoral staff
• Contribute to reviews, observations, and pupil assessments
• Maintain accurate records in line with school policies

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

• Experience supporting children or young people with PMLD, SEMH, and/or ASD
• A calm, patient, and resilient approach to challenging behaviour
• Confidence supporting pupils with complex needs and personal care
• Strong communication skills and the ability to follow structured support plans
• A genuine commitment to inclusive and trauma-informed practice

Desirable (but not essential):

• Experience in a special school or 4-19 setting
• Training in Team Teach, MAPA, or Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)
• Experience using Makaton, PECS, or AAC systems
• Knowledge of sensory integration strategies

What the School Offers:

• A highly supportive and experienced SEN leadership team
• Ongoing training in complex needs, behaviour support, and autism-specific strategies
• A well-resourced learning environment, including sensory rooms
• Opportunities for progression within SEN education

Safeguarding Statement

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks, satisfactory references, and safeguarding checks