Autism Support Assistant Non-Verbal TA

Psychology Graduates Wanted – SEN Support Role (Non-Verbal Autism Focus) | Salford
Full-time | Term-time | £90+ per day | Ideal for aspiring Educational Psychologists

Are you a recent psychology graduate looking to build practical experience in a meaningful role? Do you have a passion for supporting children with autism, especially those who are non-verbal or have complex communication needs?

At Teaching Personnel, we're offering an excellent opportunity for psychology graduates to gain hands-on experience supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), specifically those with non-verbal autism. This is a full-time role based in Salford, starting this September.

About the Role
You'll be working as a teaching assistant in a specialist SEND school that supports pupils aged 4–16 with autism, often alongside additional learning difficulties. Many of the students are non-verbal and use alternative communication methods such as PECS, Makaton, or AAC. You’ll play a key part in helping them access learning, build life skills, and develop emotional regulation.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing 1:1 and small group support to students with non-verbal autism

• Using and learning alternative communication tools

• Supporting students with routines, sensory needs, and behaviour management

• Working closely with class teachers and SEN professionals to track and support progress

Why This Role is Perfect for Psychology Graduates

• Gain experience that directly supports careers in educational psychology, mental health, or child development

• Learn in a structured yet flexible environment with specialist training opportunities

• Work alongside experienced SENCOs, therapists, and multi-agency professionals

• Build your confidence and professional toolkit for future postgraduate study or careers in education and care

Role Details
Location: Salford (easy transport links from Manchester)
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 3:30 pm (part-time options available)
Start date: September
Pay: From £90 + per day (PAYE)
Contract type: Long-term supply with potential for permanent roles

What We’re Looking For

• A psychology (or related) degree

• A patient, calm, and empathetic personality

• A genuine interest in working with autistic children, especially those who are non-verbal

• Willingness to learn and get stuck in – no prior school experience required

How to Apply
This is a rewarding opportunity to make a lasting impact while gaining valuable experience in the field of SEND. If you're ready to start your journey, apply now with your CV and one of our consultants will be in touch to discuss the next steps.

Teaching Personnel – Supporting Futures, One Student at a Time.

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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