Job Title: Teaching Assistant - Complex Needs & SLD Location: Westminster Contract Type: Full-time, Term-time only Start Date: October 2025 About the Role We are looking for a caring, resilient, and proactive Teaching Assistant to join our dedicated team, a specialist provision for children and young people aged 4 to 18 with autism, severe learning difficulties (SLD), communication challenges, and complex additional needs. This is a rewarding opportunity to support pupils with unique learning profiles through a highly individualised and therapeutic approach to education, care, and communication. Key Responsibilities * Support pupils with autism, SLD, and complex needs in accessing a broad, adapted curriculum tailored to their learning and sensory needs. * Work under the guidance of class teachers and therapy staff to deliver structured, sensory-based, and communication-focused activities. * Provide personal care, including toileting and feeding, in a way that promotes dignity, wellbeing, and independence. * Support the implementation of alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) methods such as PECS, Makaton, communication books, and electronic devices. * Assist in the creation of calm, low-arousal learning environments that support emotional regulation and minimise sensory overload. * Follow positive behaviour support plans, helping pupils manage dysregulation and develop coping strategies. * Safely assist pupils with physical movement, including hoisting and repositioning, following individual support plans and training. * Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, families, and other professionals to support holistic development. Essential Requirements * Experience working with children or young people with autism, SLD, and/or complex needs. * A compassionate and patient approach, with the ability to build strong, trusting relationships. * Confidence and willingness to support with personal care and physical needs (training provided). * An understanding of or interest in communication support strategies and sensory-based teaching. * Ability to remain calm and consistent when supporting pupils with dysregulation or challenging behaviour. * Team-focused and adaptable, with excellent communication and collaboration skills. Desirable (but not essential) * Experience with Makaton, PECS, or other AAC systems. * Knowledge of autism strategies and sensory processing approaches. * Relevant qualifications such as NVQ Level 2/3 in Teaching & Learning, Childcare, or Health and Social Care. * Team Teach or other positive behaviour support training