Trainee Teaching Assistant - Specialist Autism School

The right start in education can shape not only your career, but a child’s entire future.

A specialist SEN school in Sunderland is looking to appoint a Trainee Teaching Assistant to support pupils aged 4–19 with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), communication needs and sensory processing difficulties.

The school follows a structured, communication-focused approach, ensuring every pupil has access to learning through visual strategies, routine and consistency. The environment is calm, supportive and centred around helping pupils develop independence and confidence.

Location: Sunderland
Hours: 8:30am – 4:00pm | Monday–Friday | Term Time Only

Daily Expectations & Routine

• Staff arrive at 8:30am to prepare for the day
• Pupils follow structured timetables supported by visual aids
• You will support during lessons, life skills sessions and sensory activities
• Break and lunch are structured and supervised, focusing on social development
• The day finishes at 4:00pm, including time for team reflection and planning

Consistency and routine are essential to support pupil engagement.

The Role

As a Trainee Teaching Assistant, you will:

• Support pupils during classroom learning and structured activities
• Assist with communication using PECS, Makaton and visual supports
• Help pupils manage transitions and emotional regulation
• Support sensory-based learning and engagement
• Work closely with teachers and therapists

The Pupils

Pupils may present with:

• Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
• Speech and language communication needs
• Sensory processing difficulties
• Moderate learning difficulties
• Anxiety linked to routine and change

Experience Requirements

Experience is not essential.

This role is ideal for:

• Graduates (psychology, education, etc.)
• Individuals from care or support backgrounds
• Those looking to begin a career in education

You may start on a trainee scale, with full support provided.

Dress Code

• Smart-casual, practical clothing
• Comfortable footwear
• Suitable for an active role and sensory activities

What We Are Looking For

• Passion for the education system
• Willingness to learn about young people and SEND
• Patience, empathy and resilience
• Confidence in building relationships

What’s in It for You?

• A strong entry point into SEN education
• Ongoing support and development
• A rewarding, meaningful role
• Weekly PAYE pay

We do not use umbrella companies, meaning your pay is clear and without hidden deductions.

Apply Now

If you are looking to start a career in education and want to make a difference, apply now to find out more.

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.

Full assistance provided. For details of our privacy policy, please see visit the Protocol Education website.

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