Psychology Graduate - Autism Assistant

Entry-Level Opportunity for Psychology Graduates – Autism Teaching Assistant Role

Are you a psychology graduate eager to gain hands-on experience in educational psychology? This is your chance to work directly with children with special educational needs and develop your understanding of autism and other developmental conditions.

Join our team as an Autism Teaching Assistant at a specialist SEN school, where you’ll work alongside experienced educators, therapists, and professionals to make a tangible difference in the lives of young learners. This role is perfect for aspiring educational psychologists or those exploring careers in child development, mental health, or SEN support.

What You’ll Do

As an Autism Teaching Assistant, you’ll support students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and additional learning needs, helping them thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. You’ll gain invaluable practical experience in the classroom while contributing to meaningful progress for students.

Key Responsibilities:

• One-to-One and Group Support: Provide tailored support to students, encouraging their participation and building confidence in a classroom setting.
• Emotional Regulation: Assist students in managing their emotions and developing coping strategies, fostering a calm and productive learning environment.
• Daily Plans and Routines: Help students follow timetables and structured daily plans, reinforcing consistency to reduce anxiety and enhance focus.
• Use of Alternative Communication: Support students using PECs (Picture Exchange Communication System) and other communication tools to help them express themselves effectively.
• Adapting Materials: Work with educators to adapt resources and make the curriculum accessible, ensuring every student can engage with their learning journey.
• Collaboration with Professionals: Engage with teachers, therapists, and the SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) to monitor progress and refine strategies for student development.
• Building Relationships: Develop trusting connections with students, fostering a safe and supportive environment where they feel valued and empowered.

What You’ll Gain

This role offers psychology graduates an opportunity to deepen their understanding of:

• Autism Spectrum Disorders and related conditions.
• Emotional regulation strategies and behavior management techniques.
• The practical application of Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches to student support.
• Alternative communication methods, including PECs, to support non-verbal or minimally verbal learners.
• Real-world classroom dynamics in a specialist setting.

What We’re Looking For

We are seeking individuals with:

• Passion for Special Needs Education: A genuine interest in supporting children with autism and a drive to help them succeed.
• Empathy and Patience: The ability to stay calm, compassionate, and understanding in challenging situations.
• Excellent Communication Skills: Confidence in working collaboratively with students, teachers, and parents.
• Proactive Mindset: A willingness to learn, adapt, and contribute within a dynamic SEN environment.
• Team-Oriented Approach: The ability to thrive in a multidisciplinary team and build positive working relationships.

Experience in a similar role or knowledge of autism and SEN is advantageous but not essential. Training and mentorship will be provided.

Why This Role?

• Gain direct experience that complements your psychology degree and prepares you for future roles in educational psychology, therapy, or mental health.
• Work in a collaborative, supportive environment, guided by experienced SEN professionals.
• Make a real impact on the lives of children and young people with autism and additional needs.
• Enjoy opportunities for professional development and growth in the SEN sector.

How to Apply

Ready to take the next step in your career journey? Send us your CV today! We look forward to discussing how you can become an integral part of our team, helping students reach their potential in a nurturing and inclusive setting.

This position is subject to safeguarding checks, including an Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) clearance.

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.
For details of our privacy policy, please visit the Teaching Personnel website.