Full job descriptionSEN Teaching Assistant (Autism Specialist)Location: Acton, West London (W3 8SB)
Age Group: All Ages
Specialism: Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
Position Type: Full-time
About the SchoolLocated in Acton (W3 8SB), we are an independent specialist school dedicated entirely to pupils with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and associated complex needs. Our school provides a structured, low-arousal, and highly individualized learning environment where pupils across all age groups are supported to build essential communication, social, and functional life skills.
The RoleWe are seeking dedicated, patient, and proactive SEN Teaching Assistants to support our pupils in reaching their full potential. Working closely with class teachers, therapists, and support staff, you will play a key role in delivering tailored educational and sensory programs designed specifically for learners on the autism spectrum.
Key Needs & Responsibilities:*Autism & Complex Needs: Provide 1-to-1 and small group support to children and young people diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Condition.
*Communication Support: Utilize specialist visual and augmentative communication methods (such as PECS, visual timetables, and Makaton) to aid pupils with non-verbal or limited verbal communication.
*Sensory Regulation: Assist pupils who experience sensory processing differences, helping them navigate sensory input, avoid overload, and maintain emotional regulation.
*Behavior Support: Implement positive behavior strategies to guide pupils through dysregulation, anxiety, or challenging behavior in a safe, compassionate manner.
*Independence & Personal Care: Support pupils with functional life skills, social interaction, and personal care routines where required.
What We Are Looking For:*Experience/Interest: Prior experience working with pupils with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) or Special Educational Needs (SEN) is strongly preferred, though candidates with a clear passion for specialist education are encouraged to apply.
*Personal Attributes: Exceptional patience, empathy, resilience, and the ability to adapt quickly to the individual needs of each pupil.
*Communication Skills: Clear communication skills and a strong intuition for non-verbal cues and sensory triggers.
*Teamwork: A strong team player ready to collaborate with multidisciplinary professionals (including Speech & Language and Occupational Therapists).
What We Offer:*Small class sizes with high staff-to-pupil ratios, allowing for meaningful 1-to-1 engagement.
*Ongoing professional development and specialist training in autism strategies, sensory processing, and positive behavior support.
*A warm, collaborative team environment conveniently located in Acton (W3 8SB) with excellent transport links.
How to ApplyIf you are passionate about helping children and young people with autism thrive, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV along with a short statement explaining your interest in working within a specialist SEN environment.