Job Description

Autism Specialist 1:1 Teaching Assistant - Whitehaven

Use Your Autism Expertise to Transform Lives

Summary

A specialist school in Whitehaven is seeking an experienced and knowledgeable Autism Specialist 1:1 Teaching Assistant to support a primary-aged pupil with complex needs. This long-term role offers a meaningful opportunity for someone with a strong understanding of autism to provide personalised, structured support and make a real difference to a child's development and daily experience.

The Role

Provide dedicated 1:1 support to a pupil with autism, focusing on communication, sensory regulation, and structured routines Collaborate with teaching staff, therapists, and families to deliver personalised learning and behavioural strategies Use a total communication approach, including visual aids, PECS, and/or Makaton where appropriate Assist in managing anxiety, supporting emotional regulation, and implementing consistent, clear boundaries Promote independence, confidence, and engagement in classroom activities, adapted to suit individual needs

What We're Looking For

Significant experience supporting children or young people with autism Strong understanding of autistic presentation, including sensory needs, communication differences, and emotional regulation strategies Qualifications in Health and Social Care, SEN, Education, or similar are desirable Patient, consistent, and calm approach, able to build trust over time Skilled in implementing structure, routine, and consistency to reduce anxiety and promote learning

About the School

This specialist school offers a supportive, structured environment tailored to children with complex needs, including autism. With small class sizes, specialist resources, and a highly skilled team, the school focuses on communication, personal development, and tailored learning outcomes.

Hours of Work

Monday to Friday, 8.30am - 3.30pm. Both full-time and part-time applicants are welcomed.

Benefits

Competitive pay

Monday to Friday; No weekend work Ongoing professional development and team collaboration Opportunity to transition to a permanent contract

A Specialist Role for a Specialist Practitioner

If you have real expertise in autism and want to use your skills to support a child's development in a structured, supportive setting, this role offers the chance to make a genuine, lasting difference.

Safeguarding children is an integral part of what we do and we have a stringent safer recruitment process. We undertake checks on all the candidates we work with. As such we require a current Enhanced DBS Disclosure for everyone working in Schools. If you do not have a subscription to the DBS Update Service, you may be required to complete a new DBS application as part of the registration process. If you take a temporary role with Sense Education you will be paid on a weekly basis. All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position but long term. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Temp to perm

Pay: Up to 525.00 per week

Benefits:

Company pension Free parking On-site parking Referral programme
Work Location: In person