Autism Support Assistant

Job Title: Autism Support Assistant
Location: Primary Specialist Education Needs (SEN) School, Bury
Salary: £445 - £485 per week (PAYE)
Start Date: September

About Us:
We are working with a specialist primary SEN school in Bury dedicated to supporting children with autism and complex learning needs. Many of our students are non-verbal or have limited verbal communication, and we use a range of alternative communication methods such as PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) and other AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) tools to support their learning and interaction.

The Role:
Teaching Personnel are recruiting on behalf of this specialist school for a caring and skilled Youth Support Assistant. You will play a key role in supporting children with autism, many of whom use alternative communication systems. Your support will help students engage in learning, develop communication skills, and build independence throughout their day.

A Typical Day:

• Assisting children with their individual learning plans, often using PECS or other communication aids

• Supporting students during classroom activities, helping them understand instructions and express themselves

• Encouraging positive behavior through tailored strategies and routines

• Helping students participate in social interactions and play during breaks

• Assisting with personal care and daily living skills when needed

• Collaborating closely with teachers, therapists, and families to provide consistent support

Key Responsibilities:

• Support students who are non-verbal or have limited speech, using PECS, sign language, or other AAC methods

• Help implement personalized learning and communication strategies

• Promote calm, structured, and predictable environments to support students’ needs

• Encourage independence and confidence through daily activities

• Observe and report on students’ progress and behavior to the team

What We’re Looking For:

• Experience or strong interest in working with children with autism and complex communication needs

• Understanding of alternative communication methods such as PECS (training will be provided if needed)

• Patience, empathy, and excellent interpersonal skills

• Ability to follow structured routines and adapt to individual needs

• Team player with a flexible and positive attitude

Why Apply?

• Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children with autism

• Work in a specialist, supportive environment tailored to complex needs

• Receive training and professional development in autism and communication methods

• Join through Teaching Personnel, a trusted education recruitment agency

This position is subject to an enhanced DBS check and safeguarding procedures.

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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