Job Description

1:1 SEN Teaching Assistant (ASD Specialist) | Blackpool Primary Academy

Location: Blackpool, Lancashire

Salary: £14.24 - £15.00 per hour

Start Date: 1st June 2026

Contract: Full-time, Monday - Friday (Term-time)

Are you a dedicated SEN specialist looking to make a profound impact on a child's educational journey?

Our inclusive Primary Academy is seeking a patient, skilled, and committed 1:1 Teaching Assistant to support a non-verbal child in Year 2 with Autism. This is a pivotal role requiring a practitioner who understands that communication goes far beyond spoken words.

This position begins on 1st June 2026 for the remainder of the summer term. This initial period provides a fantastic opportunity for you to settle into the school, build a vital bond with the pupil, and secure the post for the full 2026/2027 academic year (September 2026 - July 2027).

The Role & Key Skills:

Supporting a non-verbal learner requires a specific toolkit. We are looking for a candidate proficient in:

  • AAC & Functional Communication: Fostering communication through gestures, signs (e.g., Makaton), or assistive devices/apps.

  • Speech Development: Actively building verbal imitation skills and encouraging vocalizations.

  • Receptive Language: Developing the pupil's ability to follow directions and understand classroom cues.

  • Environmental Adaptation: Creating and maintaining a visual-friendly learning environment (using Now/Next boards, PECS, or visual schedules).

The Candidate:

To be successful in this rewarding role, you must demonstrate:

  • Specialist Experience: A proven track record of working with non-verbal children or those with complex ASD needs.

  • Resilience & Patience: An understanding of the sensory needs and communication frustrations associated with Autism.

  • Commitment: High levels of attendance and a desire for long-term consistency, which is vital for this pupil's progress.

The Environment:

Our Academy is a warm, inclusive community with a high SEN profile (40%). You will join a vibrant, diverse setting where every child's voice regardless of how they "speak"-is valued. You will be supported by a leadership team that priorities professional growth and specialised SEN training.

Benefits & Pay

  • Competitive Hourly Rate: £14.24 - £15.00 per hour.

  • Job Security: A clear pathway to a full-year contract for the 2026/27 academic year.

  • Specialist Impact: The opportunity to witness first-hand the breakthrough moments in a child's communication development.

Why Choose Tradewind Education?

  • Sunday Times Top 100 Employer: Recognised for our commitment to staff for four years running.

  • AWR Protection: Ensuring your rights and pay are protected from day one.

  • Certified Training: Access to 2,500+ CPD courses, including specialised modules in Autism Awareness, PECS, and Makaton to keep your specialist skills sharp.