Teaching Assistant Autism Specialist

Teaching Assistant - ASD Unit

Location: Northampton, Northamptonshire
Start Date: September 2026
Contract Type: Full-Time | Permanent
Pay: Competitive salary, dependent on experience

Are you passionate about supporting children with autism and helping them develop their confidence, independence, and communication skills?

Would you like to build a rewarding career in education while making a genuine difference to the lives of children with additional needs?

We are working in partnership with a welcoming and inclusive primary school in Northampton that is looking to appoint a caring and committed Teaching Assistant to join their dedicated ASD Unit from September 2026 on a full-time, permanent basis.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is passionate about SEND and wants to gain specialist experience supporting children with autism within a structured, nurturing, and supportive environment. You will work closely with teachers, SENCOs, and experienced support staff to help pupils access learning, develop key skills, and thrive both academically and socially.

The Role

Providing dedicated 1:1 and small-group support to pupils within the ASD Unit
Supporting children with autism and a range of additional learning needs
Helping pupils access and engage with the primary curriculum through differentiated and personalised activities
Supporting communication, social interaction, emotional regulation, and independence
Helping children develop confidence and positive relationships with their peers
Following individual support plans and contributing to pupils' personal development
Using appropriate strategies to support children with communication and sensory needs
Promoting positive behaviour through consistent, calm, and nurturing approaches
Supporting children during lessons, break times, lunchtimes, and wider school activities
Working closely with teachers and the wider SEND team to monitor progress and identify areas for further support
Creating a safe, inclusive, and encouraging environment where every child can feel valued and supported

This Role Could Be Ideal If You

Are passionate about supporting children with SEND and autism
Are considering a long-term career in teaching, SEND, educational psychology, occupational therapy, or pastoral support
Have experience working with children with autism or additional needs
Want to develop specialist experience within a dedicated ASD provision
Have worked in a school, nursery, childcare, care, youth work, or support setting
Enjoy helping children overcome barriers to learning and develop their independence
Are patient, compassionate, and motivated by seeing children make progress

We Are Looking For Someone Who

Is caring, patient, calm, and approachable
Has a genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs
Can build trusting and positive relationships with pupils
Has strong communication and interpersonal skills
Is consistent and confident when supporting children who may display challenging behaviours
Can work effectively as part of a wider team
Is reliable, proactive, and willing to learn
Can adapt their approach to meet individual children's needs
Has previous experience with autism or SEND - desirable but not essential

What the Role Offers

A full-time, permanent Teaching Assistant position starting in September 2026
The opportunity to work within a dedicated ASD Unit in a welcoming Northampton primary school
Valuable specialist experience supporting children with autism and additional needs
A supportive team of teachers and experienced SEND professionals
Competitive salary, dependent on experience
Free access to over 2,500 CPD-accredited courses through The National College
Ongoing support from a dedicated education recruitment consultant
Excellent opportunities for professional development and progression within SEND and education

Develop Your SEND Career with Tradewind

As a Tradewind Teaching Assistant, you will have free access to over 2,500 CPD-accredited courses through The National College, giving you the opportunity to develop your knowledge and strengthen your career prospects.

Courses include Autism Awareness, Safeguarding, Behaviour Management, SEND, Mental Health in Schools, and many more.

Whether you already have experience supporting children with autism or are looking to take your first step into specialist SEND education, this role offers an excellent opportunity to develop your skills within a supportive primary school environment.

If you're passionate about helping children with additional needs reach their potential and want to build a long-term career in SEND education, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today to be considered for this permanent Teaching Assistant opportunity within an ASD Unit at a primary school in Northampton, starting September 2026
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed