Autism Inclusion Assistant

Description:

The pupils in this school don't need someone who is just passing through. They need someone who is all in.

Teaching Personnel is recruiting autism inclusion assistants for a specialist school setting in Horsham. This is a confidential client with a reputation for outstanding practice in autism education — a school where the environment, the staff team and the entire ethos are built around helping young people with autism feel safe, understood and capable of more than they or anyone else imagined possible.

We are looking for people who bring genuine depth to this role. People who have navigated life's challenges, who have developed real emotional resilience along the way, and who bring that hard-won steadiness into the classroom every single day. The young people here will notice immediately whether you are someone they can truly rely on. If you are, this could be one of the most fulfilling roles you will ever do.

Please note: due to the school's location, a full UK driving licence and access to your own vehicle is essential for this role.

What you'll be doing

Providing consistent, high-quality 1:1 and small group support to pupils with autism spectrum conditions (ASC), tailoring your approach to each pupil's individual needs, communication style and learning profile.
Implementing support strategies in line with individual Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), tracking progress and contributing to regular reviews.
Supporting communication through approaches such as Makaton, Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and other augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) methods.
Creating and maintaining calm, structured and predictable environments that help pupils manage anxiety and feel safe enough to learn and grow.
Supporting sensory regulation, transitions and changes in routine with patience, creativity and professional skill.
Working as a valued member of a multi-disciplinary team alongside specialist teachers, speech and language therapists and occupational therapists.
Maintaining accurate records and upholding safeguarding and confidentiality procedures at all times.
Who we're looking for

Someone with genuine depth of experience — whether that's working with young people with autism, a background in care or health, or simply a life well lived that has given you the emotional grounding this role demands.
A calm, consistent and reliable presence that pupils can trust absolutely, day in and day out.
Awareness of autism-specific approaches such as TEACCH, Intensive Interaction or low-arousal strategies — or a strong commitment to learning them.
The kind of emotional intelligence and personal resilience that means you can hold your ground when things are difficult and stay warm when it matters most.
A full UK driving licence and access to your own vehicle — essential due to the school's location.
Full-time availability, Monday to Friday, term-time.
Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or willingness to apply for one before starting.
What's in it for you

£23,175 per annum, including full pay during school holidays — a genuinely competitive package for a specialist support role.
Specialist autism and SEN training through Teaching Personnel's CPD programme.
A permanent role in a specialist setting where your contribution is visible, valued and makes a real difference.
A dedicated Teaching Personnel consultant who will match you carefully with the right school and support you throughout.
Immediate start options available, alongside September 2026 placements.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.

All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.

Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.

We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.

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