Teaching Assistant – Complex Needs & Sensory Learning

About the role

We are looking for a dedicated Teaching Assistant to support pupils with complex needs, including autism, severe learning difficulties, sensory processing differences, and medical requirements. The role focuses on fostering engagement, communication, independence, and life‑skills development through personalised, sensory‑rich learning experiences.

Key responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small‑group support to learners.
• Deliver sensory, play‑based and experiential activities.
• Facilitate communication using Makaton, PECS, AAC, visual timetables and intensive interaction techniques.
• Assist with personal care, mobility and healthcare needs as required.
• Build trusting relationships to promote emotional regulation and readiness to learn.
• Collaborate with teachers, therapists and families to meet EHCP outcomes.
• Support learners in developing independence, employability, community engagement and adult‑life skills.

Required profile

• Experience with autism (ASD), severe learning difficulties (SLD) or profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD).
• Understanding of complex medical needs and sensory integration.
• Ability to work with non‑verbal learners and use positive behaviour support strategies.

Required skills

• Makaton
• PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System)
• AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)
• Visual timetables
• Intensive interaction techniques