Teaching Assistant (ASC)

Philosophy Education; Hounslow; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

Philosophy Education in Hounslow is seeking an ASC Specialist Teaching Assistant to support pupils with autism across multiple schools. The role focuses on 1:1 and small-group support to access learning, develop communication skills, and build confidence and independence.

Ideal candidates are patient, calm and nurturing, with a passion for ASC and a willingness to learn PECS, Makaton or other communication approaches. Experience with ASC is desirable.

Qualifications

• Patient, calm and nurturing approach to pupils with ASC.
• Strong communication and relationship-building with pupils, families and staff.
• Willingness to learn or demonstrate strategies such as PECS and Makaton.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 or small-group support to pupils with autism.
• Support access to learning and participation in school life.
• Develop positive, trusting relationships with pupils and staff.
• Support communication, interaction and social skills.
• Encourage independence and life skills.
• Assist with sensory, emotional and behavioural needs.

Skills

Patience

Communication skills

Adaptability

Reliability

Understanding of ASC

Job description

ASC Specialist Teaching Assistant

Long-Term Competitive Pay Hounslow

Are you passionate about supporting children and young people with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)? We are looking for caring, patient and dedicated ASC Specialist Teaching Assistants to support pupils with autism across a range of schools and educational settings.

The Role

As an ASC Specialist Teaching Assistant, you will provide tailored 1:1 and small-group support to help pupils access learning, develop communication skills, build confidence and increase independence.

You may use a range of autism-specific strategies and approaches, including:

• PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System).
• Makaton and other sign-supported communication.
• Visual timetables, now-and-next boards and visual schedules.
• Communication boards, symbols and AAC technology.
• Clear, consistent and structured communication.
• Supporting sensory regulation and managing sensory needs.
• Supporting transitions and changes in routine, using positive reinforcement to encourage engagement and independence, supporting emotional regulation and reducing anxiety.

Your responsibilities may also include:

• Providing consistent 1:1 or small-group support.
• Supporting pupils to access learning and participate in school life.
• Developing positive and trusting relationships.
• Supporting communication, interaction and social skills.
• Encouraging independence and life skills.
• Supporting pupils with sensory, emotional and behavioural needs.
• Working closely with teachers, SENCOs, therapists and families.
• Following individual support plans and EHCP outcomes.

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for individuals who are:

• Patient, calm and nurturing.
• Passionate about supporting children and young people with autism.
• Confident using or willing to learn communication strategies such as PECS and Makaton.
• Able to adapt their approach to individual sensory, communication and learning needs.
• Reliable, consistent and resilient.

Experience supporting children and young people with ASC is desirable. Experience with PECS, Makaton, AAC, visual communication systems, sensory support or structured teaching approaches would be advantageous.