SEN Teaching Assistant
Job Description
Here is a job advert tailored specifically for the Camberwell (SE5) location:
Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistant\n\nLocation: Camberwell, London Borough of Southwark (SE5)
\nAge Group: All Ages
\nSpecialism: Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) & Complex Needs
\nPosition Type: Full-time
About the School\nBased in Camberwell (SE5), we are a dedicated specialist school catering to children and young people diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). Our school provides a safe, structured, and low-sensory environment specifically designed to reduce anxiety and encourage learning. We work across all age groups to help pupils build independence, communication confidence, functional life skills, and academic success tailored to their individual abilities.
The Role\nWe are looking for patient, resilient, and enthusiastic SEN Teaching Assistants to join our compassionate, multidisciplinary team. In this role, you will work closely with class teachers, Speech & Language Therapists, and Occupational Therapists to implement individualized learning pathways and support pupils in reaching their full potential.
Key Needs & Responsibilities:\n- \n
- Autism & Associated Needs: Support pupils on the autism spectrum, including those with moderate to severe learning difficulties (MLD/SLD) and speech, language, and communication needs (SLCN). \n
- Communication Support: Implement tailored visual and communication systems—such as PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), Makaton, and visual schedules—to aid non-verbal and pre-verbal learners. \n
- Sensory Processing & Regulation: Assist pupils with sensory sensitivities by supporting them with sensory tools, movement breaks, and emotional regulation techniques. \n
- Positive Behavior Support: Use proactive, low-arousal strategies to help pupils manage anxiety and emotional dysregulation, fostering a safe and calm classroom environment. \n
- Independence & Personal Care: Support pupils with daily living routines, social interaction skills, community access, and personal care where needed. \n
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- Experience or Strong Drive: Prior experience working with pupils with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) or Special Educational Needs (SEN) is preferred, though passionate applicants with a strong desire to build a career in specialist education are warmly encouraged to apply. \n
- Essential Qualities: High levels of patience, empathy, adaptability, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. \n
- Communication Skills: An intuitive understanding of non-verbal cues, sensory triggers, and alternative communication methods. \n
- Team Orientation: A collaborative mindset, ready to work side-by-side with teachers, therapists, and families. \n
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- Small class sizes with high staff-to-pupil ratios, ensuring you can make a meaningful, direct impact every day. \n
- Comprehensive onboarding and ongoing professional development in specialist autism strategies, positive behavior support, and sensory integration. \n
- A supportive, warm school community located in Camberwell (SE5) with excellent public transport links across Southwark. \n
If you are dedicated to supporting young people with autism and helping them navigate the world with confidence, we would love to hear from you! Please apply with your updated CV and a short cover letter outlining your relevant experience or interest in SEN.
