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How can a SENCO train teaching assistants to use visual supports?

A short training plan built on explain, model, practise and feedback, plus checklists to keep practice consistent.

By The Autism Kit teamUpdated Sep 27, 2026 · 1 min read
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The short answer

The most effective way to train teaching assistants is behavioural skills training: explain the support and why it helps, model it, have the TA practise it (ideally with the real materials), and give quick, specific feedback. Focus on a small core set of visual supports used the same way across the school, and check in during real lessons.

Key takeaways
  • Train with explain, model, practise, feedback.
  • Focus on a small core set of visual supports.
  • Practise with real materials in real lessons.
  • Use short checklists to stay consistent.

Why this approach?

Behavioural skills training (instructions, modelling, rehearsal and feedback) is one of the most effective ways to train staff in new practices.1 Visual supports themselves are an evidence-based practice for autistic pupils.2

What's a simple training plan?

A four-session training plan
SessionFocus
1Visual timetable: set-up, pointing to next, showing changes
2Now-and-next board: choosing 'next', following through
3Break cards and calm corner: teaching when calm, returning to class
4Putting it together in a real lesson, with feedback

What does a good session look like?

  1. Explain the support and why it helps (5 minutes)
  2. Model it with a colleague playing the pupil
  3. Practise: each TA tries it with the real materials
  4. Feedback: one specific strength, one thing to try next
  5. Check-in during a real lesson that week

What should we avoid?

Try
  • The same supports and words across the school
  • Short, frequent practice
  • Celebrating what's going well
Skip
  • One long training day with no follow-up
  • Different systems in every classroom
Free printable: classroom packPDF · 8 pages · timetable, now and next, token board, calm corner, breaks, transitions, story and profile
Download Free printable: classroom pack

What can I do this half term?

0 of 3 done

Common questions

Short sessions work well: 30 to 45 minutes per support, followed by a check-in during a real lesson.

Sources

  1. Parsons MB, Rollyson JH, Reid DH. Evidence-based staff training: a guide for practitioners. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 2012. doi.org
  2. AFIRM (UNC Frank Porter Graham): Visual supports evidence-based practice brief. afirm.fpg.unc.edu

This guide shares general information and our team's perspective, based on the sources above. Rules and services differ by country, region and school, so always check your local guidance and your organisation's policies. How we write our guides.

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