1:1 Primary Teaching Assistant - Autism Support
A welcoming mainstream primary school in Workington is looking for an experienced and qualified Teaching Assistant to join their team in September. This 1:1 role focuses on providing consistent, structured support for a pupil with autism. Full and part-time applications are welcome, and for the right person, there is scope for the role to become permanent.
The Role
As a 1:1 Teaching Assistant, you'll play a vital role in creating a predictable, supportive environment for a pupil with Autism Spectrum Disorder. From the moment they arrive in the morning until the end of the school day, you'll be their key adult providing reassurance, helping them navigate routines, and supporting their learning across the curriculum.
Your daily responsibilities will include:
* Supporting the pupil in transitioning into the classroom calmly each morning
* Preparing and using visual timetables and task boards to structure activities
* Delivering targeted support during phonics, maths, and literacy sessions in collaboration with the class teacher
* Anticipating and responding to signs of anxiety or dysregulation using established strategies such as sensory breaks, movement activities, or calm zones
* Supporting the pupil during playtimes and lunchtimes to encourage social interaction and reduce isolation
* Assisting with transitions between lessons, classrooms, and at the end of the day to ensure consistency and security
* Keeping clear notes and observations to contribute to the child's progress tracking and EHCP reviews
* Liaising regularly with the class teacher, SENCO, and wider staff to ensure a unified and consistent approach
The Ideal Person and Skills/Education Needed
* A recognised Teaching Assistant qualification (Level 2 or above) is essential
* Skilled in implementing individualised strategies and responding flexibly to need
* Understanding of sensory processing differences and experience supporting emotional regulation
* Able to maintain consistent boundaries, offer reassurance, and celebrate small wins that matter
* Patient, observant, and deeply committed to inclusive education
The School
The school fosters a safe, inclusive environment where pupils with additional needs are supported with compassion and structure. Staff use a team-based approach to ensure continuity of care and value the contribution of TAs as essential to the success of their SEND provision. The school works closely with external professionals to enhance the quality of support.
Hours
8.30 am–3.30 pm, Monday to Friday. Open to both full-time and part-time applicants.
This September, take on a role where every moment counts. Be the consistent, caring presence a child with autism needs to thrive.
Safeguarding children is an integral part of what we do and we have a stringent safer recruitment process. We undertake checks on all the candidates we work with. As such we require a current Enhanced DBS Disclosure for everyone working in Schools. If you do not have a subscription to the DBS Update Service, you may be required to complete a new DBS application as part of the registration process. If you take a temporary role with Sense Education you will be paid on a weekly basis. All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position but long term. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Temp to perm
Pay: £91.00-£105.00 per day
Work Location: In person