SEN Teaching Assistant - Autism & Complex Communication Needs

NextGen Teachers | Leeds | Full-Time | Permanent Contract | Immediate Start

Are you passionate about supporting children with special educational needs and helping them reach their full potential?

NextGen Teachers are currently recruiting for a dedicated and compassionate SEN Teaching Assistant to join a specialist school in Leeds supporting pupils with autism and complex communication needs.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is patient, nurturing and committed to making a positive difference in the lives of children with additional needs. The school provides a specialist learning environment for pupils who require tailored support with communication, learning, personal development and everyday activities.

We are looking for a proactive individual who can work effectively as part of a supportive team, adapt to the individual needs of each pupil and help create a safe, structured and inclusive learning environment.

This is a full-time, permanent position with an immediate start available for the right candidate.

The Role

As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with teachers and other professionals to support pupils with autism and complex communication needs throughout the school day.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting pupils with autism and complex communication needs on a 1:1 basis and in small groups.

• Assisting teachers in delivering engaging, accessible and differentiated learning activities.

• Supporting pupils with communication, social interaction and emotional regulation.

• Using visual aids, communication systems and structured routines to support learning and understanding.

• Providing personal care when required, including supporting pupils with toileting, changing and other personal hygiene needs.

• Helping pupils develop independence, confidence and essential life skills.

• Supporting pupils during classroom activities, transitions, break times and other parts of the school day.

• Following individual education plans, behaviour support strategies and safeguarding procedures.

• Working collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, therapists and other support staff to meet each pupil's individual needs.

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who is caring, patient and enthusiastic about working in a specialist educational setting.

The successful candidate will ideally have:

• Previous experience working with children or young people with SEN, particularly autism and complex communication needs.

• A good understanding of autism and the different ways children communicate and learn.

• A calm, flexible and positive approach to supporting pupils with additional needs.

• The ability to build trusting relationships with pupils while promoting independence and engagement.

• A willingness to learn and use alternative communication approaches and visual support strategies.

• A strong understanding of safeguarding and the importance of maintaining a safe environment.

• A team-focused attitude and excellent communication skills.

• Confidence and willingness to provide personal care, including toileting and hygiene support, in a respectful and dignified manner.

Experience in a special school, autism provision or complex needs setting would be highly advantageous. However, candidates with transferable experience in care, support work or other relevant settings are also encouraged to apply.

What NextGen Teachers Can Offer

• Full-time, permanent employment.

• An immediate start for the right candidate.

• The opportunity to work within a specialist school in Leeds.

• A rewarding role where you can make a genuine difference to pupils' lives.

• The opportunity to develop your skills and experience within special educational needs.

• A supportive working environment with opportunities to learn from experienced professionals.

Apply Today

If you are passionate about supporting children with autism and complex communication needs and are comfortable providing personal care, we would love to hear from you.

Huntress does not discriminate on the grounds of age, race, gender, disability, creed or sexual orientation and complies with all relevant UK legislation. PLEASE NOTE! You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to your situation before applying for any jobs. We are acting as a Recruitment Business in relation to this role.