SEN Teaching Assistant (Severe ASD & SLD Focus)

PK Education; Walsall; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational provider in Walsall is seeking a dedicated Autism Support Assistant to work with students aged 4-11 with severe learning difficulties and autism. This full-time role involves providing tailored support in a sensory-rich environment, promoting personal development and education. Ideal candidates will have experience with sensory processing and communication methods, and be committed to fostering a safe and inclusive learning atmosphere.

Benefits

Competitive daily rate

Ongoing CPD and specialist SEN training

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Experience supporting students with severe ASD, SLD, or complex needs.
• Strong understanding of sensory processing difficulties and communication needs.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small group support to pupils with severe ASD and SLD.
• Facilitate sensory-based activities to help students engage in learning.

Skills

Empathy

Resilience

Adaptability

Tools

Makaton

PECS

Job description

SEN Teaching Assistant (Severe ASD & SLD Focus)

SEN Primary School – Walsall (Severe ASD & SLD Focus)

Are you passionate about supporting students with severe autism and profound learning needs? Do you have the empathy, resilience, and practical experience to work in a specialist primary setting with children who require high levels of sensory and communication support? If so, we’d love to hear from you!

We are currently recruiting for a dedicated Autism Support Assistant to join a specialist primary resource provision in Walsall. This long-term, full-time role involves supporting pupils aged 4–11 with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), many of whom are sensory-seeking, non-verbal, or use alternative communication methods (e.g., PECS, Makaton).

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who thrives in a nurturing, highly structured, and sensory-rich environment, and is committed to helping pupils achieve their potential in both personal development and education.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide 1:1 and small group support to pupils with severe ASD and SLD in a structured and sensory-adapted classroom environment.
• Support non-verbal students using communication aids such as PECS, visual timetables, and Makaton.
• Facilitate sensory-based activities that help students regulate, focus, and engage in learning.
• Work collaboratively with SEN teachers, therapists, and support staff to deliver EHCP targets.
• Promote emotional regulation, personal care (where required), and daily routine support with sensitivity and professionalism.
• Ensure a safe, inclusive, and calm learning environment tailored to each child’s needs.

Key Requirements:

• Experience supporting students with severe ASD, SLD, or complex needs in a school, residential, or care setting.
• Strong understanding of sensory processing difficulties, autism-related behaviours, and communication needs.
• Resilient, patient, and adaptable with a nurturing, proactive approach.
• Confidence in managing challenging behaviours using positive behaviour support strategies.
• Experience with Makaton, PECS, or similar is highly desirable.
• Team Teach or other de-escalation training (desirable but not essential – training can be provided).

What We Offer:

• Competitive daily rate of £97 – £120 per day
• Ongoing CPD and specialist SEN training opportunities
• A warm, welcoming, and supportive team
• The chance to truly transform the lives of students with complex needs

This role is to start in September, with interviews taking place now. If you’re looking for a rewarding position where every day counts, we’d love to hear from you.

To apply or for more information, please contact Ilana at PK Education:
0121 631 346

Know someone who may be a good fit? Refer a friend and receive £100 if they’re successfully placed!

Contact us if you require more information.

• Must have an awareness of SEND and ideally experience supporting children with SEND or additional needs.

Responsibilities

• You will support students that have severe ASD.

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