Job description
Special Needs Teaching Assistant
Location: York, North Yorkshire
Start Date: January 2026
Salary: £88 – £115 per day
Contract: Full Time, Term Time Only
GSL Education are seeking a Full-Time Teaching Assistant to support KS4 learners with Autism (ASC) at a specialist provision in York, starting January 2026. This role offers the chance to make a genuine impact in a setting dedicated to supporting young people with additional needs through a nurturing, trauma-informed approach.
The provision supports pupils with ASC, SEMH and complex communication needs who require a bespoke, structured learning environment. Staff work closely with learners to build confidence, independence, emotional regulation, and positive relationships and you will play a key role in that journey.
The Role
As a KS4 ASC Teaching Assistant, you will:
- Provide consistent 1:1 and small-group support to learners with Autism in their final years of compulsory education.
- Assist with functional learning, life skills, and preparation for adulthood pathways.
- Use clear communication, routine and structure to help students engage and feel secure.
- Support pupils with emotional regulation using calm, trauma-informed strategies.
- Promote independence, resilience and positive behaviour.
- Work collaboratively with teachers, behaviour specialists and pastoral staff.
As the Ideal Special Needs Teaching Assistant:
You may have experience from a school, youth work, care, sports coaching, tutoring or similar background. Most importantly, you will be:
- Calm, patient and able to build trust with neurodiverse learners.
- Observant and responsive to individual communication styles.
- Resilient and committed to supporting learners who may display anxiety-related or challenging behaviours.
- Passionate about helping young people develop life skills, confidence and future aspirations.
- Experience working with ASC or in specialist provisions is beneficial, but not essential for the right candidate.
Essential Special Needs Teaching Assistant Requirements:
- Experience supporting children, teenagers or young adults.
- A genuine interest in Autism, SEMH or SEND education.
- Full-time availability from January 2026.
- An Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or willingness to apply.
Why This Role?
- Join a well-regarded specialist community with a supportive, team-focused culture.
- Work in a setting that prioritises wellbeing, emotional literacy and flexible, personalised learning.
- Build meaningful relationships with learners preparing for their next stage in life.
- Receive ongoing support, CPD and guidance from GSL Education.
If you’re passionate about supporting KS4 learners with Autism and want to help them thrive academically and personally, we’d love to hear from you.
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 Special Needs 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.