SEN Teaching Assistant – Autism & SEMH Support

Location: Shepherds Bush London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham
Setting: Mainstream Primary School with High SEN Intake
Contract: Full-Time Long-Term Term-Time Only
Start Date: ASAP / Flexible

Role Overview

A well-established and inclusive primary school in Shepherds Bush is seeking a confident resilient and highly committed SEN Teaching Assistant to support pupils with autism SEMH (Social Emotional and Mental Health needs) and additional learning needs. This is a long-term opportunity for an SEN professional who understands the importance of consistency structure and emotional intelligence when working with children who require additional support.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a busy diverse school environment and is confident supporting pupils who may display challenging behaviour linked to communication difficulties emotional regulation or sensory processing needs. The successful candidate will play a key role in helping pupils access education manage emotions and develop independence both academically and socially.

About the School

The school is located in the heart of Shepherds Bush and serves a vibrant diverse community. It has a high proportion of pupils with SEN including children with autism SEMH needs speech and language difficulties and sensory challenges. Inclusion is at the centre of the schools ethos and SEN support is well embedded across classrooms.

The leadership team is experienced and supportive with a strong SENCO-led structure. SEN Teaching Assistants are viewed as essential professionals rather than classroom extras and their input is valued in planning reviews and day-to-day pupil support.

The school benefits from:

• Clear behaviour and inclusion policies

• Access to external professionals (EPs SALT behaviour support teams)

• A strong pastoral and safeguarding culture

• Clear routines and expectations for pupils and staff

Key Responsibilities

As an SEN Teaching Assistant your role will include:

• Delivering consistent 1:1 SEN support for pupils with autism and SEMH needs

• Supporting pupils in line with EHCP targets and behaviour support plans

• Helping pupils regulate emotions and manage anxiety throughout the school day

• Supporting engagement in learning activities through adapted tasks and resources

• Implementing strategies for pupils with sensory processing difficulties

• Encouraging positive behaviour independence and self-confidence

• Supporting pupils during transitions including arrival movement between lessons and end-of-day routines

• Working collaboratively with class teachers to ensure inclusive lesson delivery

• Supporting pupils during breaktimes and lunchtimes particularly those who struggle with social interaction

• Recording observations and sharing feedback with teachers and the SENCO

• Upholding safeguarding procedures and ensuring pupil wellbeing at all times

This is a hands-on SEN role requiring patience awareness and the ability to remain calm and consistent in challenging situations.

The Ideal Candidate

The school is looking for an SEN Teaching Assistant who:

• Has strong experience supporting pupils with autism and/or SEMH

• Is confident working 1:1 and in small groups

• Understands behaviour as communication

• Can apply de-escalation strategies effectively

• Is calm emotionally resilient and professional

• Can build trusting relationships with pupils who may struggle with authority

• Is reliable punctual and committed to long-term work

• Has a genuine passion for SEN and inclusion

Experience in a mainstream school with a high SEN intake is highly desirable.

Essential Requirements

• Previous experience as an SEN Teaching Assistant or similar SEN support role

• Strong understanding of autism and SEMH needs

• Ability to manage challenging behaviour calmly and safely

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

• Availability for full-time long-term work

What the School Offers

• A stable long-term role within a supportive SEN-focused environment

• Strong leadership and SENCO support

• Clear expectations and behaviour systems

• Opportunities to gain further SEN experience

• A collaborative and respectful staff culture

• Competitive daily pay dependent on experience

Why This Role

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

• Deepen their experience with autism and SEMH

• Work in a school that truly values SEN staff

• Make a visible impact on pupils behaviour learning and wellbeing

• Be part of a committed inclusive school community

How to Apply

If you are an experienced SEN Teaching Assistant looking for a rewarding opportunity in Shepherds Bush we would welcome your application. Please apply with your CV outlining your SEN experience and availability.

Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis.