Autism Support Assistant

Autism Support Assistant 
Locations: Salford, Bolton & Bury
Pay: £90+ per day | Term-Time Only | Full-time & Flexible Placements | Immediate Start (post-registration) & September start

Teaching Personnel is working in close partnership with a network of specialist schools in Salford, Bolton, and Bury to recruit dedicated Autism Support Assistants. These roles are ideal for individuals who are passionate about supporting autistic children and young people to reach their potential in a tailored, understanding, and inclusive environment.

Whether you’re exploring a new career in education or already have experience working with neurodiverse children, we’d love to hear from you.

Who Will You Support?
You’ll work with students aged 4–19 with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). Many students may also have associated needs such as:

• Social communication differences

• Sensory processing challenges

• Speech, language, and communication needs (SLCN)

• Anxiety and emotional regulation difficulties

• Repetitive behaviours or differences in learning styles

Students may also have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) outlining specific learning and support needs. These are brilliant young people who thrive with patient, consistent, and individualised support.

What Will Your Day Look Like?
Every day is active, varied, and deeply rewarding. Your responsibilities may include:

• Morning transitions: Supporting students as they arrive at school, using visual schedules, social stories, or sensory strategies to ease into the day

• In-class support: Helping students access learning using autism-friendly tools like PECS, Now & Next boards, Makaton, and sensory aids

• 1:1 interventions: Delivering personalised activities that focus on communication, emotional regulation, sensory integration, or social interaction

• Structured play and breaktime support: Encouraging safe and positive social opportunities, with awareness of sensory needs or communication differences

• Emotional and behavioural support: Using proactive, low-arousal approaches to help students regulate and remain engaged in learning

• Team collaboration: Working closely with teachers, Speech & Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and autism specialists to maintain a consistent support approach

• End-of-day routines: Supporting smooth transitions home, using communication tools or calming routines where needed

You’ll play a vital role in building trusted relationships and helping autistic students feel understood, accepted, and valued.

What Kind of Person Are We Looking For?
We welcome candidates from a range of backgrounds. You do not need to be a qualified teacher, but ideally you:

• Have experience working with children or young people with autism (in school, care, or personal settings)

• Understand the importance of routine, structure, and consistency for autistic learners

• Are empathetic, observant, and attuned to non-verbal communication

• Are calm under pressure and able to respond flexibly to changes or challenging behaviour

• Have a genuine passion for supporting neurodiverse individuals and promoting inclusion

Experience with PECS, Makaton, sensory diets, or emotion coaching is desirable but not essential – full training is provided.

Why Join Teaching Personnel?

• Competitive pay: £90+ per day, paid weekly

• Specialist training: Access to CPD including Autism Awareness, Team Teach, Communication Tools, and Safeguarding

• Dedicated support: A consultant who understands SEN and will find the right placement for you

• Flexible opportunities: Full-time, part-time, and ad hoc roles to suit your schedule

• Career development: Build experience for careers in psychology, therapy, teaching, or SEN support

Apply Now
If you’re ready to make a real difference in the lives of autistic young people, click “Apply Now” and send your CV. A member of our friendly team will be in touch to discuss your experience and find the perfect role for you.

Let’s work together to create calm, safe, and inspiring learning environments where autistic students can thrive — every day.

All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
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