SEN Teaching Assistant (Autism & SLD Specialist)

SEN Teaching Assistant (Autism & SLD Specialist) Location: Chorley Area (Lancashire) Salary: £95.89 - £115.89 per day Dependent on Experience Contract: Full-Time (5 Days per Week) Hours: 8:30 am - 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday (Term-Time Only) Job Type: Temporary to Permanent Are you an experienced SEN Teaching Assistant looking for a rewarding role where you can make a genuine impact? We are recruiting for a highly regarded, independent Specialist School in the Chorley area. The school provides exceptional education and care for young people aged 6-19 who have mild, moderate, and severe autism (ASC), alongside associated complex learning needs. We are specifically seeking a dedicated and resilient individual with proven experience supporting pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and those who are Non-Verbal. If you have a passion for alternative communication and tailored support, this consistent Monday-to-Friday role is perfect for you. Key Responsibilities as an SEN TA: Support pupils aged 6-19 with severe autism and complex learning needs within a structured classroom environment. Work closely with non-verbal pupils, utilising communication tools such as PECS, Makaton, or AAC devices to ensure their voices are heard. Deliver highly individualised learning interventions tailored to pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD). Foster a calm, safe, and positive environment, using proactive strategies to support sensory regulation and positive behaviour. Assist with life skills, social integration, and personal care where required, always maintaining the pupil's dignity. What We Are Looking For: Experience: Essential experience working with children or young people with severe autism, SLD, and non-verbal communication needs. Skills: Proficiency in alternative communication methods (e.g., Makaton, PECS) and a strong understanding of autism-specific communication barriers. Attributes: A patient, empathetic, and highly adaptable approach. You must be resilient and passionate about celebrating small steps of progress. Availability: Ability to commit to a full-time schedule, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday. Why Join This School? Work within a specialist independent setting with excellent resources and small class sizes. Enjoy great hours (8:30 am - 3:30 pm), providing an enviable work-life balance. Benefit from a supportive team of experts, including specialist teachers and therapists, with opportunities for ongoing professional development. Conveniently located in Chorley, easily accessible from Preston, Leyland, Blackburn, and the wider Lancashire area. How to Apply: If you have the experience and dedication required for this specialist position in Chorley, please click 'Apply Now' or submit your CV directly to (url removed) or call (phone number removed). Please Note: This position is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory safeguarding references