Teaching Assistant (Long-Term) Specialist Support Role (Challenging Behaviour / Non-Verbal Autism) Location: Brent / Harrow Start date: ASAP Contract: Long-term We are recruiting experienced Teaching Assistants to support learners with severe autism, significant learning difficulties, and very limited or no verbal communication, often presenting with challenging behaviours. This is a vital role working within a specialist provision in a well-regarded, inclusive school setting. As a TA in this role, you will: Provide 1:1 or small-group support to pupils with complex needs Use behaviour management strategies and de-escalation techniques Support non-verbal communication (e.g., through visual aids, Makaton, PECS or alternative augmentative systems) Assist with personal care, sensory regulation, transitions, and daily routines Work closely with teachers, SENCO and external professionals (therapists, psychologists) to implement individualised support plans Help monitor and record pupil progress, adapting support where needed Contribute to creating a safe, nurturing, low-arousal learning environment Based in Brent, near to Harrow, the school is part of a federation dedicated to inclusion and high-quality support for pupils with SEND. The school promotes early identification of additional needs, collaborating with external agencies (e.g., speech and language therapists, educational psychologists) to build tailored support. Their SEND provision is rooted in a personalised, inclusive approach : every child has access to a broad curriculum with differentiated interventions to remove learning barriers. They strongly encourage parent and pupil involvement in support planning, ensuring communication is transparent, collaborative, and child-centred. To be successful in this role, you should have: At least 3 months experience in a similar role (supporting pupils with autism, non-verbal communication, or challenging behaviour) Confidence in implementing behaviour strategies and managing challenging behaviours safely and positively Knowledge or willingness to learn visual communication systems (PECS, Makaton, etc.) Excellent patience, resilience, and empathy Strong communication skills and the ability to work well in a multi-disciplinary team A valid enhanced DBS (or willingness to obtain one) Apply now if you are looking for: A meaningful, impactful role supporting some of the most vulnerable children A long-term contract Opportunities for professional development and training in special education, behaviour support, and communication strategies A supportive, collaborative team environment in a school committed to inclusion and excellence This school is working with Horizon Teachers because: The best teachers and support staff love working with us - check out our 4.8* average reviews on Google We offer the best rates of pay and ensure you are fully trained for your perfect new role Our experienced team of friendly consultants work hard to find the right job for the right person - every time! Send in your CV today and the team will be in touch with next steps. Horizon Teachers is a specialist Education Recruitment Consultancy that helps Teachers and Support Staff find long term, permanent and interim employment in Primary, Secondary and Special Schools throughout London, the South East, the Midlands and the North of England. As part of the registration process you will be required to have a DBS Check carried out and all original relevant qualifications will need to be sighted and copied before any work placement.For all teaching roles you will need to hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent. Horizon Teachers, part of Operam Education Group.