Job Description

SEN Teaching Assistant - Long Term - Specialist School (Autism ASC/ASD)
Location: Ilford
Start Date: January 2026
Hours: Monday- Friday, 8:30am-3:30pm
Contract: Full Time, Long Term, Term-Time Only
Setting: All-through Specialist School (Primary-Secondary) for Autism (ASC/ASD)

About the Role
We are working in partnership with a highly respected Specialist School in Ilford that supports Primary and Secondary-aged pupils with Autism (ASC/ASD), including students with complex needs and non-verbal communication styles. This is a Long Term role starting in January 2026 and is ideal for an experienced SEN Teaching Assistant seeking stability, high-quality training, and strong opportunities for career progression within a specialist provision.

We are looking for candidates with a high level of experience supporting students with Autism (ASC/ASD). This may include professional experience within a school, specialist provision, or meaningful first-hand personal experience supporting individuals with ASC.

Why This Opportunity

Work within a Specialist School in Ilford with a strong, established Autism provision Excellent training and CPD opportunities Supportive, multi-disciplinary team environment A Long Term role offering stability and career development Suitable for an SEN Teaching Assistant with strong Autism (ASC/ASD) experience
Daily Duties
As an SEN Teaching Assistant within this Specialist School, your responsibilities may include:

Supporting pupils with Autism (ASC/ASD) across Primary or Secondary phases Working with non-verbal students using communication systems such as PECS, symbols, visuals or Makaton Assisting with personalised learning plans and EHCP targets Delivering structured interventions and sensory-based activities Supporting routine, structure and behaviour regulation strategies Preparing and adapting classroom resources Collaborating with teachers, therapists and the SENCO Observing and reporting pupil progress and behaviour Assisting with transitions in and around the school Maintaining a calm, safe and inclusive learning environment Ensuring all safeguarding standards are upheld throughout the day
Required Skills, Experience and Qualities
Experience:

Significant experience supporting students with Autism (ASC/ASD) Experience with non-verbal students or those with complex needs Experience in a Specialist School, SEN department, or Autism-focused setting Alternatively, personal first-hand experience with Autism (ASC/ASD)
Skills and Abilities:

Strong understanding of ASC learning profiles Ability to follow detailed routines and behaviour support plans Confident using visual communication tools Clear communication skills Ability to adapt learning approaches to individual needs
Attitude and Behaviours:

Calm, patient and consistent Child-centred, supportive and reliable Professional and reflective Committed to a Long Term role and ongoing development
Safeguarding Requirements
This position involves daily, direct contact with children and is classified as regulated activity. All applicants must:

Undergo an Enhanced DBS check Provide employment references covering the last two years Adhere to all safeguarding and child protection policies Maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality Prioritise pupil safety, welfare and wellbeing at all times
How to Apply
If you are an experienced SEN Teaching Assistant with strong experience supporting students with Autism (ASC/ASD) and are looking for a Long Term opportunity within a Specialist School in Ilford, please apply with your most recent CV.

TLSA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and all roles are subject to the usual safeguarding checks. The post carries the safeguarding responsibilities outlined in the job description and person specification. Please note that this position is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, with the relevant amendments (1975, 2013, 2020, 2023 and any that follow), meaning all cautions and convictions that aren't "protected" will need to be declared.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 90.00-100.00 per day

Work Location: In person