About the role
Person Specification – Teaching Assistant (TA2) – (SEND Focus: Autism)
Essential Qualifications & Training
- GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths (Grade C/4 or above)
- Relevant Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (or willingness to work towards)
- Evidence of continuous professional development, particularly in SEND and autism support
Experience
- Proven experience working as a Teaching Assistant or in a similar educational support role
- Demonstrable experience supporting pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
- Experience working with pupils with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
Knowledge & Understanding
- Good understanding of autism and its impact on learning, communication, and social interaction
- Awareness of inclusive teaching practices and differentiation strategies
- Understanding of safeguarding procedures and child protection responsibilities
- Familiarity with behaviour management strategies, including positive behaviour support approaches
Skills & Abilities
- Ability to build positive, supportive relationships with pupils, staff, and parents/carers
- Strong communication skills, including the ability to adapt communication styles to meet individual pupil needs
- Skilled in supporting pupils’ emotional regulation and promoting independence
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, as well as using initiative when required
- Competence in supporting teaching and learning activities under the direction of a teacher
- Good organisational skills and ability to manage time effectively
Personal Qualities
- Patient, empathetic, and resilient approach to supporting pupils
- Commitment to inclusion and equality of opportunity
- Flexible and adaptable to meet the changing needs of pupils and the school environment
- Positive attitude and willingness to engage in further training and development
- Professional, reliable, and able to maintain confidentiality
Desirable Criteria
- Training in autism-specific approaches (e.g. TEACCH, PECS, or similar strategies)
- Experience supporting sensory needs and using sensory regulation tools
- First Aid training
- Experience of working with assistive technologies or alternative communication methods (e.g. AAC systems)
Additional Requirements
- Enhanced DBS clearance
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
School-submitted vacancy from DfE Teaching Vacancies. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Source terms. This listing does not imply endorsement or a paid relationship with the school. Apply free of charge using the original listing.