Autism Teaching Assistant

Woodlands; Birchington; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialized educational institution in Birchington is seeking a dedicated 1:1 Teaching Assistant to provide tailored support for a pupil with Autism. In this vital role, you will employ strategies that enhance communication and emotional regulation, while implementing sensory breaks within daily routines. Ideal candidates will possess emotional resilience and an understanding of Autism. Join a supportive team where professional growth and collaboration are emphasized. Closing date for applications is January 21, 2026.

Benefits

Ongoing professional development

Access to specialized resources

Team support in challenging situations

Qualifications

• Ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations.
• Understanding of how Autism affects sensory processing.
• Recognition that progress takes time.

Responsibilities

• Provide behavioral support using proactive strategies.
• Utilize specialist communication tools.
• Implement sensory integration strategies.
• Ensure consistency in presence for the pupil.

Skills

Emotional Resilience

Autism-Informed

Patience

Tools

PECS

Now & Next boards

Visual schedules

Job description

Are you a resilient, empathetic, and calm individual? Maple Haven School is a small, specialised environment dedicated to children with complex needs. We are looking for a dedicated 1:1 Teaching Assistant to provide consistent, high-quality support for a pupil with Autism who requires a specialist approach to communication and emotional regulation.

The Role: Supporting Success

In this role, you will be more than just a classroom assistant; you will be a vital anchor for a student who finds the world a busy and sometimes overwhelming place. You will help bridge the gap between their unique way of processing the world and their educational goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Behavioral Support: Use proactive strategies to manage behavior that challenges, focusing on de-escalation, identifying triggers, and supporting the pupil back to a generation regulation.

• Communication: Utilize specialist tools such as PECS, Now & Next boards, and visual schedules to reduce anxiety and promote independence.

• Sensory Integration: Implement sensory breaks and work activities as part of the student's daily routine to help them maintain focus.

Consistency: Provide a predictable and safe presence, ensuring the student feels understood even during difficult moments.

About You

We are looking for someone who looks beyond 'behaviour' to see the child and the communication behind it.

Essential Traits & Skills:

• Emotional Resilience: The ability رقم remain calm, professional, and nurturing when faced with challenging behaviors.

• Autism‑Informed: A solid understanding of how Autism affects sensory processing and communication.

• Patience: An understanding that progress is often measured donos small, wonderful steps over time.

Why Maple Haven School?

Working with us means joining a small team that truly looks out for one another.

• A 'Team' Approach: You will never be left to manage a difficult situation alone; we work together to support our students and each other.

• Specialist Environment: Work in a setting designed for neurodiversity, with access to sensory rooms and specialised resources.

• Growth: We offer ongoing professional development in Autism awareness and positive behavior support.

How to Apply

If you have the heart, the humor, and the resilience to help our pupil thrive, we would love to hear from you.

• Closing Date: 21 January 2026

• Safe Recruitment: Maple Haven School isдардынص commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.