Specialist Teaching Assistant – Full-Time 1:1 Support for Child with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)
Location: Watford
Start Date: September 2025
Contract: Full-Time, Temp-to-Perm
Pay: £85-£110 per day (depending on experience)
Support Beyond the Standard – Make a Real Difference
Are you calm, empathetic, and able to think on your feet? Do you thrive in a role where flexibility, relationship-building, and patience are essential?
Supply Desk is working in partnership with a nurturing school in Watford, seeking a committed and emotionally aware Teaching Assistant to provide 1:1 support for a child with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) — a complex profile within the autism spectrum characterised by high anxiety and a need for control.
This full-time, temp-to-perm role offers the opportunity to build a lasting, positive relationship with a pupil who needs a highly individualised approach to thrive in the classroom.
What You’ll Be Doing
Supporting a child with PDA on a 1:1 basis throughout the school day
Using low-demand, choice-led strategies to reduce anxiety and promote engagement
Creating a calm, non-confrontational learning environment
Working closely with the class teacher, SENCO, and external professionals to deliver a child-centred plan
Promoting emotional regulation, autonomy, and positive social interaction
Recording and reflecting on progress, triggers, and successful support strategies
What We’re Looking For
Experience supporting children with autism, anxiety, or behavioural needs – PDA-specific experience is highly desirable
A compassionate, patient and creative mindset
Confidence in managing emotionally distressed or avoidant behaviour using de-escalation strategies
A commitment to consistency, flexibility, and safeguarding
Strong communication and teamworking skills
A desire to progress into a permanent role within a supportive school environment
Why Work with Supply Desk?
Opportunity to transition into a permanent position
Dedicated consultant support and regular school feedback
Access to specialist CPD, including PDA and autism training
A chance to truly change a child’s school experience for the better
Referral bonuses for recommending others
Apply Now – Start September 2025
Send your CV to (url removed)
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Take the next step in your SEN support career — and become a trusted, positive presence in the life of a child who truly needs you.
Supply Desk is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check