Communication Support Assistant (SEND) – Sunderland
Specialist Autism Setting | Full-Time | September Start
We’re looking for a committed Communication Support Assistant to join a specialist autism provision in Sunderland this September.
This is a setting dedicated to supporting children and young people with Autism Spectrum Conditions and associated communication needs — providing a safe, structured environment where every pupil can thrive.
If you’re patient, positive, and passionate about helping young people build communication skills and confidence, this could be the ideal role for you.
What your role will involve:
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Supporting pupils with Autism and communication needs in class and through tailored interventions
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Using specialist strategies to assist with speech, language, and alternative communication methods
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Helping pupils build trusting relationships and engage with their learning
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Working closely with teachers, therapists, and pastoral teams to provide consistent, positive support
We’re looking for someone who:
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Has experience in SEND, autism support, or communication-focused roles
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Is calm, empathetic, and great at building rapport
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Can confidently support a range of communication strategies, including AAC and visual supports
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Is available full-time from September
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Thrive trained? That’s a bonus — if not, we’ll help you access this training through Protocol Education
What we offer at Protocol Education:
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Weekly PAYE pay — no umbrella deductions
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Free access to Thrive and autism-focused CPD
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Dedicated support from a local consultant
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A quick, hassle-free registration process
Interested in making a difference where it really matters?
Let’s chat — we’d love to help you find your next role in SEND support.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQs on the Protocol Education website for further 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.
Protocol Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with the 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 FREE online safeguarding and Prevent Duty training to all our workers. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and subscribe to the DBS Update Service.
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