Job description
Teaching Assistant
Location: York, North Yorkshire
Start Date: January 2026
Salary: £88 – £115 per day
Contract: Full Time, Term Time Only
GSL Education are recruiting a Full-Time Teaching Assistant to work with KS3 learners with Autism (ASC) at a specialist provision in York, starting January 2026. This is a rewarding opportunity to join a setting known for its nurturing ethos, therapeutic approach, and commitment to helping every young person thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.
The school supports pupils with a range of additional needs, including ASC, SEMH, communication differences, and associated learning barriers. Staff work closely as a team and follow trauma-informed approaches to ensure pupils feel safe, understood, and ready to learn.
The Role
As a Teaching Assistant in the KS3 ASC team, you will:
- Provide consistent support to learners with Autism, helping them regulate, access learning and build essential life and social skills.
- Work 1:1 and in small groups under the guidance of class teachers and the SEN team.
- Promote structure, routine, and clear communication to help pupils feel secure.
- Use patience, empathy, and calm behaviour strategies to support emotional regulation.
- Assist with personalised learning activities tailored to individual needs.
- Contribute to a positive, safe and inclusive environment.
As the Ideal Teaching Assistant, should you be:
- Passionate about supporting neurodiverse learners.
- Calm, observant and able to build trust with pupils who may have experienced challenges in mainstream settings.
- Resilient, empathetic, and committed to understanding each pupil’s communication style.
- Able to work well as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
Experience with ASC, SEMH or specialist settings is desirable but not essential if you bring the right attitude, consistency and willingness to learn.
Essential Teaching Assistant Requirements
- Experience supporting children or young people (school, youth work, care, sports coaching, volunteering etc.).
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
- An Enhanced DBS on the update service, or willingness to obtain one.
- Full time availability from January 2026.
Why This Role?
- Join a specialist community known for its supportive culture and child-centred ethos.
- Receive guidance from experienced teachers and behaviour specialists.
- Make a meaningful difference to the lives of KS3 learners with Autism.
- Benefit from ongoing support and development through GSL Education.
If you feel passionate about supporting ASC learners and want to be part of a dedicated team, we encourage you to apply.
Please contact Kerry Fowler at GSL Education for more information and submit an-up-to date CV via the application link to apply for the position of Teaching Assistant in York.
Please be advised this role requires a strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection policies. Successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS disclosure.