Alternative Provision Teaching Assistant (Non-Verbal Communication Specialist)

Full-Time Term-Time OnlyHourly Rate: From £13.68Hours: 8:30am - 4:30pm, Monday to Friday

We are seeking a compassionate, patient, and highly dedicated Teaching Assistant with strong experience supporting non-verbal children. This role is ideal for someone who understands alternative communication methods and is passionate about helping pupils find their voice-whether through AAC, PECS, visual supports, or other communication strategies.

You will be working with young people who cannot access mainstream education due to SEN, SEMH, medical needs, or while awaiting a specialist school placement. Your role will focus on building trust, supporting regulation, and enabling every pupil to participate in meaningful, personalised learning experiences.

Role Overview

As an Alternative Provision Teaching Assistant specialising in non-verbal communication, you will:

• Deliver 1:1 and small-group sessions tailored to pupils who communicate using alternative strategies.
• Support pupils in expressing their wants, needs, and feelings using AAC systems, PECS, visual schedules, gestures, and other tools.
• Help non-verbal pupils access learning that is adapted to their developmental level, sensory needs, and interests.
• Work collaboratively with families, schools, therapists, and multi-agency professionals to ensure communication strategies are consistent and effective.
• Promote regulation, engagement, and emotional well-being through therapeutic-based activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Build positive, secure, and trusting relationships with non-verbal pupils.
• Provide high-quality support using alternative communication methods tailored to each child's needs.
• Assist with planning and delivering creative, sensory-based, and therapeutic learning opportunities.
• Support pupils in developing independence, emotional regulation, and participation in daily routines.
• Reinforce communication targets, celebrate progress, and adjust strategies where needed.
• Contribute to EHCP reviews, multi-agency meetings, and progress assessments.
• Maintain accurate records of communication development and behaviour observations.
• Follow all safeguarding procedures and maintain a warm, professional approach with pupils, families, and colleagues.

What We're Looking For

We welcome applications from individuals who are:

• Experienced in supporting non-verbal children within SEND or alternative provision settings.
• Patient, calm, and emotionally resilient.
• Skilled at building rapport with pupils who experience communication barriers or find learning environments overwhelming.
• Able to think creatively, use initiative, and adapt sessions to suit individual needs.
• Collaborative team players committed to professional growth and high-quality practice.

Qualifications

• 5 GCSEs including Maths and English (grade 4-9 or equivalent).

Essential Experience

• Direct experience working with non-verbal children.
• Using alternative communication tools such as PECS, AAC devices, visual timetables, and communication boards.
• Supporting SEND pupils through trauma-informed approaches and positive interventions.
• Forming positive, supportive relationships with pupils and parents.
• 1:1 or small-group learning support that leads to meaningful progress.
• Strong understanding of child safeguarding and how to implement safe, effective practice.