Autism and Complex Needs Assistant

Autism and Complex Needs Assistant

Location: Leeds, LS8

Contract: Temporary to permanent (term time only). Monday to Friday (8:30-3:30)

Start date: ASAP

Salary: £90-£95 per day (dependant on experience)

About the Role

NextGen Teachers are proud to be partnering with a welcoming specialist provision primary school at the heart of its community. The school offers a vibrant and supportive learning environment where every child is supported to achieve their full potential.

We are seeking a compassionate, patient, and dedicated Autism Specialist Teaching Assistant to join their skilled and supportive team. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone passionate about helping children with autism and/or complex needs thrive, both academically and socially.

In this role, you will work closely with pupils to:

• Develop effective communication strategies, which may include non-verbal communication
• Support emotional regulation, resilience, and emotional literacy
• Build confidence and independence
• Encourage positive peer relationships and social skills
  
  

Key Responsibilities

• Provide tailored support in communication, social interaction, sensory regulation, and behaviour management
• Implement specialist strategies, including personalised timetables, transition support, emotion coaching, and structured sensory breaks
• Adapt classroom activities to make learning accessible, engaging, and meaningful
• Deliver one-to-one and small group interventions to enhance curriculum access and progress
• Promote positive play, peer friendships, and inclusive social opportunities
• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and parents/carers to ensure consistent, holistic support
• Contribute to Educational Health Care and behaviour support plans
  
  

Requirements

• Experience supporting children or young people with special educational needs (SEN)
• Comfortable providing personal care
• Team Teach trained, or willing to complete training
• Patience, empathy, and strong positive behaviour management skills
• A genuine passion for helping children reach their potential
• Understanding of safeguarding practices and accurate record-keeping procedures
• Enhanced DBS (on the Update Service or willingness to apply)
• Minimum Grade C/4 in GCSE English, Maths, and Science
• Level 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning (or equivalent)

If you meet the above requirements and are eager to contribute to the safe, happy environment that supports the learning of every student, please email your CV to charlotte@nextgenteachers.co.uk, or apply directly to this advert.

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 Agency in relation to this role.