Job Description: SEN Teaching Assistant (PMLD / SEMH / ASD) Location: Surbiton, South West London
School Type: 4–19 Special Educational Needs School
Contract: Full-time / Term-time
Start Date: ASAP
Purpose of the Role To provide high-quality, personalised support to pupils aged 4–19 with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs (SEMH), and Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC/ASD). The role focuses on enabling pupils to access learning, develop communication and independence skills, and thrive within a safe, structured, and nurturing environment.
Key Responsibilities Pupil Support (PMLD / SEMH / ASD Focus)
1. Provide 1:1 and small-group support for pupils with complex needs, including PMLD, SEMH, and ASD
2. Support pupils with personal care, feeding, toileting, and mobility where required
3. Assist pupils with sensory processing needs, including sensory regulation activities
4. Use positive behaviour support and de-escalation strategies to manage challenging behaviour safely
5. Support pupils with emotional regulation, social interaction, and communication
6. Deliver interventions outlined in pupils’ EHCPs and behaviour support plans
Communication & Learning Support
7. Use AAC strategies, including Makaton, PECS, symbols, visual timetables, and assistive technology
8. Support access to a sensory-based and differentiated curriculum
9. Encourage engagement through play-based, functional, and life-skills learning
10. Promote independence while providing appropriate physical and emotional support
Classroom & Pastoral Support
11. Assist the class teacher with lesson delivery and classroom organisation
12. Support pupils during transitions, breaktimes, and unstructured periods
13. Build strong, trusting relationships with pupils, offering consistent routines and reassurance
14. Monitor and record progress, behaviours, and wellbeing
Multi-Disciplinary Working
15. Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists (speech and language, occupational therapy), and pastoral staff
16. Contribute to reviews, observations, and pupil assessments
17. Maintain accurate records in line with school policies
The Ideal Candidate Will Have:
18. Experience supporting children or young people with PMLD, SEMH, and/or ASD
19. A calm, patient, and resilient approach to challenging behaviour
20. Confidence supporting pupils with complex needs and personal care
21. Strong communication skills and the ability to follow structured support plans
22. A genuine commitment to inclusive and trauma-informed practice
Desirable (but not essential):
23. Experience in a special school or 4–19 setting
24. Training in Team Teach, MAPA, or Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)
25. Experience using Makaton, PECS, or AAC systems
26. Knowledge of sensory integration strategies
What the School Offers:
27. A highly supportive and experienced SEN leadership team
28. Ongoing training in complex needs, behaviour support, and autism-specific strategies
29. A well-resourced learning environment, including sensory rooms
30. Opportunities for progression within SEN education
Safeguarding Statement The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks, satisfactory references, and safeguarding checks.