EYFS SEN Teaching Assistant (Early Autism DevelopmentalNeeds)

Location: Erdington, Birmingham Role Type: Full-Time | Term-Time Only Salary: £21,000 – £24,000 FTE Start Date: ASAP About the School This role is based at a large, inclusive primary school in Erdington, Birmingham , which has a dedicated EYFS unit supporting children with identified and emerging special educational needs . The school serves a diverse community and has a strong reputation for early intervention, inclusion, and child-centred practice. Within the EYFS setting, children are supported from Nursery through Reception, with many pupils presenting with autism spectrum condition (ASC), speech and language delay, sensory processing difficulties, global developmental delay, and social communication needs . Some children have Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), while others are supported at SEN Support level and may be undergoing assessment. The school places strong emphasis on play-based learning, routine, structure, and emotional security , recognising that children learn best when they feel safe, understood, and supported. The EYFS team works closely with the SENCo, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, and external early years services to ensure consistent and effective provision. The Role As an EYFS SEN Teaching Assistant , you will play a vital role in supporting young children during a crucial stage of their development. You will work closely with the class teacher and SENCo to provide individualised support , helping children to engage with learning, develop communication skills, and build emotional regulation. This role involves one-to-one and small group support , adapting activities to meet each child’s developmental level. You will support children who may be non-verbal or minimally verbal, children who require sensory regulation strategies, and children who need support with transitions, attention, and emotional expression. The role requires a calm, nurturing, and observant approach, with an understanding that progress in EYFS SEN may be measured in small but meaningful steps. Key Responsibilities Provide targeted SEN support within EYFS Support children with autism, speech delay, and sensory needs Assist with phonics, early reading, mark-making, and numeracy Use visual timetables, now-and-next boards, and routines Support emotional regulation and behaviour through positive strategies Encourage communication attach strategies to play and interaction Support personal care and toileting routines where required Observe, record, and contribute to EYFS assessments Support transitions between activities and environments Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCo, and therapists Maintain a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment Uphold safeguarding and child protection procedures Person Specification The ideal candidate will: Have experience working in EYFS or early years SEN Understand child development and early autism indicators Be patient, nurturing, and emotionally attuned Have experience with sensory strategies and structured play Be confident working one-to-one with young children Hold an EYFS, childcare, or SEN qualification (desirable) Be committed to safeguarding and inclusive education Training and Support The school offers: EYFS SEN and autism-specific training Support with speech and language strategies Ongoing professional development Clear progression routes into SEN or specialist roles Safeguarding Commitment The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Enhanced DBS clearance is required.