SEN Teaching Assistant

Job description

SEN Teaching Assistant - KS1 Autism Class
Location: Mitcham, South London
Setting: Primary SEN School
Class: KS1 - 3-5 pupils
Contract: Full-time
Start Date: September 2026 / ASAP
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

Are you an experienced SEN Teaching Assistant looking for a rewarding role supporting children with autism and complex communication needs?

We are working with a specialist SEN primary school in Mitcham who are looking for a dedicated and nurturing SEN Teaching Assistant to join a small KS1 class of just 3-5 pupils.

All pupils within the class have autism and are non-verbal, with communication supported through approaches including PECS and Makaton.

As an SEN TA, you will work closely with the class teacher and wider support team to provide highly personalised support to pupils throughout the school day.

You will help pupils access learning, develop communication and social skills, and become as independent as possible.

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support within the classroom.
• Support pupils with autism and complex communication needs.
• Use PECS, Makaton and other communication strategies.
• Support pupils to access the curriculum.
• Encourage independence and positive social interaction.
• Help implement individual learning and behaviour strategies.
• Support personal care where required.
• Maintain a calm and structured classroom environment.
• Work closely with the class teacher and wider SEN team.
• Build positive and trusting relationships with pupils.

The school would particularly welcome applications from candidates with:

• Previous experience working with children or young people with SEN.
• Experience supporting pupils with autism.
• Experience working with non-verbal pupils.
• Knowledge of PECS and/or Makaton is highly desirable.
• A patient, caring and nurturing approach.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• The resilience and enthusiasm required to work within a specialist setting.

You do not necessarily need to have worked in a specialist school previously - the school is also interested in candidates with strong mainstream TA experience and a genuine passion for SEN

Reference 225591145