SEN Teaching Assistant – Autism, Communication & Sensory Needs

Location: Fulham London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham
Setting: Inclusive Mainstream Primary School with Specialist SEN Support
Contract: Full-Time Long-Term Term-Time Only
Start Date: ASAP or September Start Available

Introduction to the Role

An inclusive and forward-thinking primary school in Fulham is seeking a skilled and compassionate SEN Teaching Assistant to join its dedicated support team. This role is designed for an SEN professional who has a strong understanding of autism communication difficulties sensory processing needs and associated learning challenges and who is committed to making a long-term impact within a school setting.

The successful candidate will work closely with pupils who require consistent structured and emotionally attuned support throughout the school day. Many of the pupils supported in this role have EHCPs and the school places a strong emphasis on tailoring support to meet individual needs while encouraging independence and confidence.

This is an excellent opportunity for an SEN Teaching Assistant who values teamwork structure and child-centred practice and who wants to work in a school that genuinely prioritises inclusion and wellbeing.

About the School

The school is located in a residential area of Fulham serving a diverse and engaged local community. It has a strong reputation for inclusive practice and a well-developed SEN provision embedded across the school. SEN support is led by an experienced SENCO and supported by a committed leadership team that understands the complexity of supporting pupils with additional needs.

The school environment is calm organised and structured with clear routines that help pupils feel safe and supported. Teaching Assistants are treated as key professionals and are actively involved in planning SEN reviews and daily support strategies.

The school benefits from:

• Clear SEN systems and routines

• Access to external professionals (Speech and Language Therapists Educational Psychologists)

• Strong pastoral and safeguarding frameworks

• A collaborative respectful staff culture

Role Responsibilities

As an SEN Teaching Assistant you will be responsible for providing high-quality consistent support to pupils with additional needs. Your duties will include:

• Providing 1:1 SEN support for pupils with autism and communication needs

• Supporting pupils in line with EHCP outcomes and individual learning plans

• Assisting with the development of communication and social interaction skills

• Supporting pupils with sensory regulation including awareness of triggers and coping strategies

• Adapting learning tasks and resources to ensure curriculum access

• Encouraging independence while offering appropriate guidance and reassurance

• Supporting emotional regulation and positive behaviour through consistent approaches

• Working closely with class teachers to support inclusive lesson delivery

• Supporting pupils during unstructured times such as playtimes and lunchtimes

• Assisting with transitions between activities and settings

• Observing and recording pupil progress and behaviour to inform SEN planning

• Maintaining high standards of safeguarding wellbeing and professionalism

This role requires strong observation skills patience and the ability to respond flexibly to pupils changing needs.

Who the School Is Looking For

The ideal candidate will:

• Have proven experience supporting children with autism and additional needs

• Be confident providing 1:1 SEN support in a mainstream primary school

• Have a strong understanding of communication and sensory needs

• Be calm patient and emotionally resilient

• Be able to follow structured behaviour and support plans consistently

• Build positive trusting relationships with pupils

• Work effectively as part of a wider SEN and classroom team

• Be reliable professional and committed to long-term work

Experience supporting pupils with speech and language difficulties or sensory processing needs is highly desirable.

Essential Requirements

• Previous experience as an SEN Teaching Assistant or in a similar SEN role

• Understanding of autism and communication needs

• Commitment to safeguarding and child protection

• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)

• Availability for full-time long-term employment

What the School Offers

• A long-term stable role in a supportive and inclusive school

• Strong SEN leadership and guidance

• Clear expectations and structured SEN systems

• Opportunities for SEN-focused professional development

• A positive respectful working environment

• Competitive pay based on experience

Why Apply for This Role

This role is ideal for an SEN Teaching Assistant who wants to:

• Deepen their experience supporting pupils with autism and communication needs

• Work in a school that genuinely values SEN support

• Make a meaningful difference to pupils daily learning and wellbeing

• Be part of a stable supportive and professional team

How to Apply

If you are an experienced SEN Teaching Assistant seeking a rewarding opportunity in Fulham we would be pleased to receive your application. Please submit your CV detailing your SEN experience and availability.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and early applications are encouraged.