Full-Time SEN Teaching Assistant – Autism Specialist Provision Location: South Shields Do you thrive in calm, structured environments where routine isn’t boring, it’s essential? A specialist setting in South Shields is seeking a full-time SEN Teaching Assistant to support pupils aged 5–11 with autism and communication needs. This is a highly structured environment where predictability creates progress. The Type of Person They’re Looking For They are looking for someone who is: • Calm and steady • Comfortable with repetition • Confident using visual communication systems • Consistent with boundaries • Patient when progress feels slow Pupils here respond best to adults who are predictable and emotionally regulated. Daily Expectations & Routine Morning Entry Structured visual timetable review and emotional check-ins. In-Class Support • 1:1 support during phonics and maths • Use of now-and-next boards • Supporting pupils during transitions • Modelling language and communication Sensory Breaks You will support movement breaks and quiet room regulation. Behaviour & Environment • Low-arousal classrooms • Clear routines • De-escalation strategies prioritised • Physical intervention extremely rare Experience & Pay Scale Experience with autism desirable but not essential. Strong candidates may be appointed on a trainee TA scale with full mentoring. If structured SEN support sounds like your strength, apply today or contact us for more information. All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQs on the Protocol Education website for further 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. Protocol Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with the 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 FREE online safeguarding and Prevent Duty training to all our workers. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and subscribe to the DBS Update Service. Full assistance provided. For details of our privacy policy, please see visit the Protocol Education website.