Autism Support Assistant

Are you passionate about supporting children and young people with Autism and additional needs? Do you want a role where you can make a genuine difference every single day?

Teaching Personnel is currently recruiting enthusiastic and caring Autism Support Assistants to join a range of specialist SEN schools across Horsham from September 2026.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to begin or develop a rewarding career in education, particularly those interested in working with children with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), communication needs and additional learning needs.

Whether you are an experienced SEN professional, a graduate looking to gain valuable experience before progressing into teaching, psychology or therapy, or someone coming from a care, youth work or support background, Teaching Personnel can help you find the right opportunity.

The Role

As an Autism Support Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting pupils both academically and personally. Working closely with teachers and specialist staff, you will help create a positive, structured and inclusive learning environment where every pupil has the opportunity to thrive.

Your responsibilities may include:

• Supporting pupils with Autism and a range of additional needs within the classroom
• Helping students engage with lessons and activities
• Providing one-to-one and small group support
• Encouraging communication, independence and confidence
• Supporting pupils with emotional regulation and social development
• Using positive behaviour strategies to help pupils overcome barriers to learning
• Working alongside experienced teachers, therapists and support staff
• Helping pupils develop important life skills both inside and outside the classroom

Every child is different, meaning no two days will be the same. You will have the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with pupils and play an important part in their educational journey.

About the Schools

Teaching Personnel works with a variety of specialist SEN schools across Horsham, supporting pupils with a range of needs including:

• Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
• Speech and language difficulties
• Moderate learning difficulties
• Severe learning difficulties
• Complex needs
• Social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH)

These schools provide nurturing and supportive environments where staff work together to ensure pupils receive the best possible education and care.

Who We're Looking For

We are looking for candidates who are:

• Patient, caring and empathetic
• Positive and enthusiastic
• Reliable and committed
• Comfortable working as part of a team
• Confident supporting children with additional needs
• Keen to learn and develop within SEN education

Previous experience working with Autism or SEN is beneficial but not essential. We welcome applications from candidates with experience in:

• Care work
• Support work
• Residential childcare
• Youth work
• Sports coaching
• Psychology or education degrees
• Healthcare backgrounds
• Graduate roles involving mentoring or support

The most important qualities are the right attitude, resilience and a genuine desire to help young people achieve their potential.

Why Work With Teaching Personnel?

Teaching Personnel is the UK's leading education recruitment agency, and we pride ourselves on supporting candidates throughout their education careers.

When you join us, you will benefit from:

• Access to a wide range of SEN opportunities across Horsham and West Sussex
• Competitive weekly pay
• Free specialist SEN training and CPD courses
• Dedicated support from a local education consultant
• Advice and guidance throughout your placement
• Opportunities to secure long-term and permanent positions
• The chance to build valuable experience within specialist education settings

Ideal For:

This role would be particularly suited to:

• Graduates considering careers in teaching, educational psychology, speech therapy or occupational therapy
• Individuals looking to move into education from care or support work
• Experienced Teaching Assistants looking for a new challenge
• People passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people

Requirements

• Enhanced Child Only DBS registered on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one)
• Commitment to safeguarding and supporting young people
• Right to work in the UK
• Availability to work Monday-Friday during term time

If you are looking for a rewarding role where you can make a real impact, Teaching Personnel would love to hear from you.

Apply today to discuss Autism Support Assistant opportunities starting September 2026 across Horsham.

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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