South Africa: Au Pair for an Autistic, 7-year-old boy in Wellington posted by The Neurodiversity Centre

We are looking for an au pair with exceptional patience and a genuine passion for neurodiversity to come alongside a Level 3 non-verbal autistic boy. He enjoys being outside, water-play, digital educational games and watching music videos.

The ideal candidate will be able to adopt a practical, hands-on approach to guide him in carrying out activities independently through consistent encouragement and repetition.

Someone who is willing to learn, thinks creatively and outside the box, and can adapt to an energetic, noisy environment is required. Being able to provide a calm, steady presence combined with resilience and enthusiasm will make you a strong fit for this role.

Main Purpose of the job:

The main purpose of this role is to be a helping hand in supporting the childs unique and specific needs. This includes creating childspecific, playbased learning opportunities, and translating the learnings and successes from interactions with the child into practical guidance for the family. In doing so, the candidate fosters the childs ability to thrive while equipping both the child and family with the necessary guidance and support. A genuine passion for neurodiversity and a commitment to being a secure, longterm source of support are essential.The candidate will be trained by the NDC Facilitation Academy and thereafter receive personalised support from a registered counsellor for up to 4-6 weeks, working in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team based at the Neurodiversity Centre.

Job Objectives:

• Provide patient, consistent companionship and support to a Level 3 non-verbal autistic boy in his daily activities.
• Providing guidance that addresses bodybrain disconnect and promotes independence through repetition and reinforcement.
• Support, guide and model learning and development across daily routinesincluding toilet habits, mealtimes, and other essential activities.
• Demonstrate creativity and willingness to think outside the box, to engage the child meaningfully who is unable to execute most instructions.
• Foster an understanding of his individual differences, sensory needs, and executive functioning, assisting with routines/structure.
• Offer support and scaffolding to help regulate his emotions, reducing uncertainty and anxiety.

• Maintain enthusiasm and reliability while supporting the childs growth and development.
  

Requirements

General Requirements:

       A reliable means of transport to and from the place of work Essential.

       A valid drivers license and reliable car Desirable.

       Fluent in Afrikaans Desirable.

Job-Related work experience:
       Experience in supporting childrens growth and development through guidance, encouragement, and structured assistance. – Desirable\
       Experience in a role supporting non-verbal children DesirablePrevious experience in a role supporting children on the Autism Spectrum Desirable
Job-Related Knowledge:
       Familiarity of with level 3 autism spectrum disorder (ASD) – Desirable.
       Familiarity with non-verbal communication differences and development needs – Desirable
       Familiarity with low arousal, child-led, neuro-affirming approach – Desirable.
       Familiarity and awareness of body brain-disconnect able to recognise challenges in motor planning and execution – Desirable
       Familiarity with attention difficulties and hyperactivity in young children Desirable.

Job-Related Skills:

       Repetition and reinforcement strategies Desirable.

       Patience and consistency – Essential

       Emotional regulation support strategies and scaffolding techniques – Desirable

       Non-verbal communication strategies – Desirable

       Social, play and life skills Essential.

       Relationship building skills – Essential.

Willingness to learn and collaborate with parents/therapists involved in his care – Essential 

Benefits

Support and training from a multi-disciplinary team knowledgeable in the field of Neurodiversity.

Working Hours:

• Monday to Friday: 14:00 – 18:00, including school holidays
• There may be an opportunity to provide extra support over weekends and public holidays

Salary Range:

        R8500 R10 000  per month (Negotiable, and depending on previous experience and qualifications)

Ideal starting date:

       Introduction in December, but official starting January 2026