Job Introduction
Post: 1:1 Teaching Assistant for Early Years
Perm / Temp: Appointment fixed to duration of EHCP pupil attending Winchelsea Nursery and Primary School
Salary: G3 - £24,796 - £25,989 FTE
Contract: 32.25 hours per week term time only (8.45 am to 3.30pm)
Location: Winchelsea Nursery and Primary School
Start Date: September 2026
About the Role
We are seeking a highly motivated, effective and inspirational 1:1 Teaching Assistant to support a child with a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), to work in the Early Years. This role is essential in helping the child access learning, develop communication, and feel safe and regulated throughout the school day.
The pupils require support to ensure that there are as many opportunities as possible to enable them to integrate and socialise with their peers and to be able to access the curriculum. Knowledge and experience of working within the Early Years /KS1 and /or with SEND would be beneficial.
Key Responsibilities
• Provide consistent 1:1 support throughout the day to help the child access the Early Years curriculum.
• Implement the interventions and strategies outlined in his EHCP
• Help the child engage safely with peers through adult-facilitated parallel play and simple shared activities.
• Maintain a predictable, low-arousal environment to reduce sensory overwhelm.
• Work closely with the SENCO, class teacher and parents to ensure consistency across home and school.
• Record progress towards EHCP outcomes and contribute to reviews.
We are looking for someone who is:
• Will actively support and enhance the Vision and Values of our school
• Has a positive, warm and welcoming personality with the ability to communicate well with children, parents, staff and Governors alike
• Has high expectations of pupils’ achievements and behaviour
• Experienced in supporting children with ASD, communication delays and sensory needs
• Is organised and pays attention to detail, carrying out the role with precision, care and enthusiasm
• Understands how pupils learn and how best to support them to success
• Confident using visual supports, knowledge of a qualification in speech and language, modelling language and following structured routines.
• Able to build a trusting, secure and nurturing relationship.
• Willing to support with toileting, self-care and sensory regulation.
• Creative, observant and able to adapt activities to the child’s interests
• Qualified to Teaching Assistant Level 3 or EYFS qualification
What We Offer
• A happy and welcoming village school with a strong partnership with its community
• A supportive and experienced Early Years team.
• Training in ASD strategies, communication systems and sensory regulation.
• Regular supervision and guidance from the SENCO, external agencies and professionals.
• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in a child’s early development
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• A chance to make a real difference in children’s lives.
• Staff wellbeing initiatives and a positive, inclusive culture.
• Supportive and active governors
Fluency Duty
In accordance with Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016 (Fluency Duty), the ability to converse at ease with customers and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for the post.
The school advertising the vacancy will contact you directly regarding the outcome of your application and any interviews. When interviews are taking place schools will follow all Government and Public Health England Guidelines.
All shortlisted candidates will need to verify their eligibility to work in the UK at interview.
