Severe ASD Teaching Assistant – SEN School

Education First Recruitment; London Borough of Barnet; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

Education First Recruitment is recruiting for an experienced Teaching Assistant to join a specialist SEN school in Barnet, supporting pupils with severe Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and complex needs. The role involves 1:1 and small-group support, using visual timetables and structured learning to help pupils engage and develop communication skills.

The ideal candidate will have experience with ASD, non-verbal pupils, sensory processing, and behaviour management.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children with ASD (severe/complex).
• Experience with non-verbal pupils or communication difficulties.
• Understanding of sensory processing and autism-specific strategies.
• Calm, patient and consistent approach.
• Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively.
• Experience with PECS, Makaton advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Providing 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with severe ASD.
• Supporting non-verbal pupils and those with limited communication.
• Using visual timetables and structured learning approaches.
• Pupils with sensory processing and regulation.
• Implementing positive behaviour strategies and de-escalation techniques.
• Encouraging communication, social interaction and independence.

Skills

1:1 Support

ASD Experience

Non-verbal Communication

Visual Timetables

Behaviour Management

Communication & Teamwork

Tools

PECS

Makaton

Job description

Severe ASD Teaching Assistant - SEN School

Location: Barnet, North London

Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

Start Date:January

Education First is currently recruiting for experienced and enthusiastic Teaching Assistants to join a specialist SEN school in Barnet, supporting pupils with severe Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and associated complex needs.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with a genuine passion for supporting children with autism, particularly those with significant communication, sensory and behavioural needs.

The successful candidate will work closely with teaching staff and specialist professionals to provide structured, consistent support, helping pupils engage with learning, develop communication skills and build independence.

The Role

• Providing 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with severe ASD.
• Supporting non-verbal pupils and those with limited communication.
• Using visual timetables and structured learning approaches.
• Pupils with sensory processing and regulation.
• Implementing positive behaviour strategies and de-escalation techniques.
• Encouraging communication, social interaction and independence.

The Ideal Candidate

• Previous experience supporting children with ASD, ideally severe or complex presentations.
• Experience working with non-verbal pupils or those with communication difficulties.
• Understanding of sensory processing and autism-specific strategies.
• A calm, patient and consistent approach.
• Confidence supporting pupils with challenging behaviour.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Experience using PECS, Makaton or other alternative communication methods would be advantageous.

Why Work with Education First?

Education First works closely with schools across London, building strong relationships and connecting education professionals with rewarding opportunities.

Our team understands the education sector and is committed to supporting candidates throughout their registration, placement and ongoing career development.