Job Description

Aspiring Art Therapists - SEN Teaching Assistant
Teaching Assistant - Ideal for Aspiring Art Therapists & Future SEN Professionals
Milk Education | Hillingdon | On-site
Are you looking to start a rewarding career supporting children with additional needs? Whether you're an aspiring art therapist, psychologist, SEN specialist, counsellor, or someone who wants to make a positive impact in education, this full-time Teaching Assistant role could be the perfect next step. Milk Education is working with a fantastic ASD-specialist primary school in Hillingdon who are seeking compassionate, creative, and dedicated individuals to join their team.
About the School
This exceptional school is purpose-built for pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorder, offering a calm, structured environment that supports communication, independence, emotional regulation, and sensory needs. You'll work within a highly skilled team of teachers, therapists, and SEN practitioners--an excellent setting for anyone wanting to develop hands-on experience in a supportive, specialist environment.
The Role
As a full-time Teaching Assistant, you'll support pupils across EYFS and primary year groups, helping them access learning in ways that suit them. Creativity is welcomed; whether through art, visuals, sensory activities, or play, your ideas can help pupils communicate, stay regulated, and build confidence. This role provides real insight into therapeutic approaches and SEN practice--perfect for those considering careers in art therapy, psychology, teaching, or mental health.
Key Responsibilities
Providing 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with ASD
Using visual communication tools such as timetables, now/next boards, social stories, and task breakdowns
Supporting emotional regulation and communication, including using PECS and Makaton
Assisting with sensory needs using movement breaks, sensory equipment, and calming strategies
Helping maintain low-arousal, structured learning environments
Supporting transitions and promoting positive behaviour
Assisting with emotional wellbeing and personal care where required
Working collaboratively with teachers to adapt activities and resources
Following all safeguarding procedures to ensure pupil safety
Why This Role Is Ideal for Creative & Therapeutic Pathways
Fantastic real-world experience for aspiring art therapists, creative therapists, psychologists, SEN practitioners, or future teachers
Opportunities to apply creative, visual, or sensory-based approaches
A supportive, experienced team offering guidance and continuous professional development
A chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of neurodiverse pupils every day
Benefits via Milk Education
Competitive full-time pay
Fast, smooth registration
Long-term opportunities available
5-star agency with 3,000+ reviews
Exclusive partnerships with SEND schools
Access to a free discounts and perks portal
1,000+ accredited/discounted CPD courses via Milk Academy
Free PSHE resources and lesson materials
Wellbeing hub + Educator Wellbeing eBook
School Preparation Pack for new placements
24/7 support from a dedicated consultant
Access to specialist safeguarding webinars via "Unbottled"
Part of the UK's only eco-friendly education supply agency

Skills Required