Graduate Psychology, Autism & Communication Needs SEN Teaching Assistant

Graduate Psychology, Autism & Communication Needs SEN Teaching Assistant
Location: Brixton, South London
Contract: Full-time | Long-term opportunity
Working Hours: Monday–Friday, term-time only
Start Date: ASAP
Pay: £108.35 per day

Graduate SEN Teaching Assistant – Psychology, Autism & Communication Needs

Are you a Psychology graduate interested in autism, child development, speech and language, or educational psychology? Are you looking to gain practical experience supporting children with additional needs within a primary school setting?

Pertemps Education Network is working in partnership with a welcoming primary school in Brixton to recruit a compassionate, enthusiastic and dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant to support pupils with autism and communication needs.

This is an excellent opportunity for a Psychology graduate or aspiring educational, clinical or child psychologist to gain valuable hands-on experience working with children who require additional support to access learning, develop communication skills and build confidence.

You will work closely with experienced teachers, the SENCO and other support staff to help pupils overcome barriers to learning and achieve their individual goals.

As a Graduate SEN Teaching Assistant, you will play an important role in supporting pupils with a range of additional needs, including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), speech and language difficulties, social communication differences and associated learning needs.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing tailored 1:1 and small-group support to primary-aged pupils with SEN.
• Supporting autistic pupils to develop their communication, social interaction and emotional regulation skills.
• Helping children access the primary curriculum through differentiated activities and individualised learning strategies.
• Using visual supports, structured activities and appropriate communication strategies to encourage engagement and independence.
• Supporting pupils who may experience sensory sensitivities, anxiety or difficulties managing transitions.
• Encouraging positive behaviour, confidence and participation in classroom activities.
• Working collaboratively with class teachers, the SENCO and external professionals to support pupils' individual targets.
• Building trusting relationships with pupils and helping to create a safe, inclusive and nurturing learning environment.

Who Should Apply? The school is particularly interested in candidates who are passionate about child development, autism and communication needs.
You may be a strong fit if you have:

• A degree in Psychology, Child Development, Education, Speech and Language Therapy or a related subject, although relevant experience may also be considered.
• A genuine interest in supporting children with autism and additional learning needs.
• Experience working with children, ideally within a school, SEN setting, nursery or care environment.
• An understanding of communication difficulties and the importance of adapting support to each child's needs.
• A patient, empathetic and proactive approach to supporting children's development.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• A willingness to learn specialist SEN strategies and develop your practical experience.

Previous SEN experience is advantageous, but applications from enthusiastic graduates looking to begin a career in special educational needs are encouraged.
Why Apply?

• Valuable psychology experience: Develop practical skills relevant to future careers in educational psychology, clinical psychology, speech and language therapy or SEN teaching.
• Specialist SEN exposure: Gain first-hand experience supporting autistic children and pupils with communication needs.
• Professional development: Learn from experienced teachers and SEN professionals.
• Rewarding work: Make a meaningful difference to children's learning, confidence and independence.
• Ongoing agency support: Receive guidance and support from Pertemps Education Network throughout your placement.

To apply, please contact Charlie Hayes on:

E: (url removed)
M: (phone number removed)