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Job description

GSL are seeking a dedicated Autism Support Worker to join a supportive SEN school setting in Colchester, working with students with Autism (ASC/ASD), SEMH (Social, Emotional & Mental Health), learning difficulties and associated communication needs. This is a full-time role supporting pupils on a 1:1 and small group basis, helping them access learning, develop independence, and regulate emotions in a structured environment.

You will work closely with teachers, SENCOs, therapists and pastoral staff to support students with communication needs, sensory processing differences, behaviour support needs and social interaction difficulties, ensuring they can engage positively with education and daily school life.

If you are an experienced Autism Support Worker, SEN Teaching Assistant, Behaviour Mentor, Learning Mentor, Youth Worker, Residential Support Worker, Care Assistant or Graduate, this role would suit someone who is calm, patient and passionate about supporting young people with autism, SEND and complex needs.

You will have opportunities for professional development and will support students in a range of areas, including:

  • Providing 1:1 and small group support for students with Autism (ASC/ASD)
  • Supporting communication, emotional regulation and social interaction skills
  • Implementing strategies linked to EHCP targets and individual support plans
  • Supporting sensory needs and creating a structured, low-arousal learning environment
  • Using visual supports, routines and personalised interventions
  • Supporting behaviour using de-escalation and positive reinforcement strategies
  • Assisting students during lessons, transitions and unstructured times
  • Helping students build independence, confidence and life skills

As an Autism Support Worker, you will play a key role in helping students with autism access education in a way that meets their individual needs. You will work closely with the wider school team to ensure consistency, structure and a trauma-informed, inclusive approach to learning and behaviour support.

Autism Support Worker – SEN School – Education and Training – Colchester

Position: Autism Support Worker (1:1 / Small Group)

Location: Colchester

Salary Scale: £92.59 - £120 per day (depending on experience)

Contract Type: Full-time

Responsibilities:

  • Provide tailored 1:1 and small group support to students with Autism (ASC/ASD)
  • Support pupils with communication, sensory and emotional regulation needs
  • Implement EHCP targets and personalised learning plans
  • Use structured approaches including visual timetables, routines and reinforcement strategies
  • Support behaviour using calm, consistent and proactive de-escalation techniques
  • Work closely with teachers, SENCOs and pastoral teams
  • Support students during lessons, transitions and breaktimes
  • Promote independence, engagement and confidence in learning
  • Contribute to a safe, structured, inclusive and autism-friendly environment

Qualifications and Skills:

  • Experience working with children or young people with Autism (ASC/ASD) or SEND
  • Strong understanding of communication differences and sensory needs
  • Patient, calm and consistent approach to behaviour and support
  • Ability to build strong, trusting relationships with pupils
  • Experience in education, care, youth work, support work or similar settings desirable
  • Team player with strong communication skills and resilience
  • Passion for inclusion, SEND and improving outcomes for young people

What We Offer:

  • Competitive daily pay rates
  • Supportive SEN school environment in Colchester
  • Ongoing CPD in Autism, SEND, SEMH and behaviour support
  • Clear progression routes into SEN teaching, therapy, pastoral or specialist roles
  • Valuable experience for careers in education, psychology, social care and youth work

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of young people with Autism and additional needs, supporting them to develop confidence, communication skills and independence in a nurturing SEN environment.

Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection and that successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks including an enhanced DBS on the update service.

If you are interested in this role, please click 'apply now' to submit your full and up-to-date CV, and one of our dedicated consultants will be in touch within 24 hours.

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