SEN Teaching Assistant

Key Responsibilities

• Support individuals and small groups of pupils with ASD, including those who are non-verbal, to access the curriculum and participate fully in school life.

• Implement individual learning programmes, behaviour support strategies, and communication plans as directed by the teacher/SENCo.

• Use alternative communication methods such as PECS, Makaton, AAC devices, or visual supports to enable pupils to express themselves.

• Assist with the physical, personal, and social needs of pupils, ensuring dignity, safety, and wellbeing at all times.

• Adapt learning materials and resources to meet pupils'' individual needs.

• Promote positive behaviour, emotional regulation, and social interaction through consistent use of strategies and routines.

• Supervise and support pupils during transitions, unstructured times, and off-site visits.

• Provide feedback to the class teacher and contribute to assessment, recording, and reporting on pupil progress and development.

• Work collaboratively with colleagues, therapists, and external agencies to support holistic development.

• Safeguard pupils by following school policies and procedures at all times.

• Experience of working with children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), particularly Autism Spectrum Disorder.

• Understanding of the challenges faced by non-verbal children and strategies to support communication and engagement.

• Knowledge and/or experience of using alternative communication systems (PECS, Makaton, AAC, visual timetables).

• Ability to establish positive and nurturing relationships with children.