Job Description

We are seeking a compassionate, patient and dedicated 1:1 SEN Teaching Assistant to join our supportive team and provide individualised support for a primary-aged pupil with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and a Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) profile.
This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who is committed to building trusting relationships, understanding individual needs, and helping a child thrive both academically and emotionally within a nurturing school environment.

• Provide consistent 1:1 support throughout the school day, adapting to the pupil's individual needs.
• Develop a trusting, positive relationship that promotes emotional safety and wellbeing.
• Use low-arousal, collaborative and flexible approaches that are appropriate for a child with a PDA profile.
• Support learning through personalised strategies, adapting tasks and expectations where appropriate.
• Help the pupil develop confidence, independence, communication and social skills.
• Recognise signs of anxiety or dysregulation and respond calmly using agreed support strategies.
• Work closely with the class teacher, SENCO, therapists and parents/carers to ensure a consistent approach.
• Contribute to monitoring progress, recording observations and reviewing support plans.
• Promote inclusion while respecting the child's individual communication and sensory needs.

• Experience working with children with Special Educational Needs, particularly Autism.
• An understanding of, or willingness to learn about, PDA-informed approaches.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• A calm, patient and empathetic approach.
• The ability to think creatively, adapt plans and respond flexibly to changing situations.
• A positive attitude, resilience and a genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs.
• Experience in a primary school setting is desirable but not essential.