At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with Special Educational Needs in a flexible, rewarding role.
- Company: Axcis Education, the UK's leading SEND recruitment agency.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible hours, and free professional development courses.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and access a network of specialist schools.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while gaining valuable experience for your future career.
- Qualifications: Passion for inclusive education and relevant academic knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Location: Bristol & South Gloucestershire
Contract Type: Flexible, ad-hoc work around university commitments, part-time long-term placements available
Pay: £92.63 per day and above
Looking for meaningful, flexible work alongside your studies? Are you studying Psychology, Education, Early Childhood Studies, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Social Work, Nursing, or a related subject? Do you want hands‑on experience supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) while building valuable skills for your future career?
Axcis Education, the UK's leading specialist SEND recruitment agency, is recruiting compassionate, proactive and enthusiastic university students for flexible SEND Teaching Assistant opportunities across Bristol and South Gloucestershire for the 2026/2027 academic year. We are registering candidates now to ensure they are fully compliant and ready to access work from the very start of the 2026/2027 academic year.
In the long-term, whether you are looking to gain experience for postgraduate study, teacher training, educational psychology pathways, or a future career in SEND, these roles offer an incredibly rewarding opportunity to make a genuine difference while developing highly sought‑after skills in specialist educational settings.
About the Role
As a SEND Teaching Assistant, you will support children and young people with a range of additional needs, including:
- Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
- Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD)
- Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD)
- Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN)
- Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs
- Complex medical needs
- Sensory and physical disabilities
Responsibilities may include:
- Supporting pupils on a 1:1 basis or within small groups
- Assisting with personalised learning activities and interventions
- Encouraging communication, social interaction and independence
- Supporting emotional regulation and positive behaviour strategies
- Assisting with personal care where required
- Working alongside teachers, therapists and wider multidisciplinary teams
- Supporting sensory‑based learning and communication approaches
- Helping pupils access enriching educational experiences both inside and outside the classroom
- Contributing to a safe, inclusive and nurturing learning environment
About the Schools
Most opportunities are within a highly respected group of specialist schools in North Bristol that support children and young people with a wide range of complex SEND needs. These schools are known for their inclusive ethos, outstanding staff support, specialist facilities and commitment to helping every pupil achieve meaningful progress. You may work in purpose‑built environments featuring sensory rooms, specialist communication resources, therapeutic spaces, life‑skills facilities and highly adapted learning environments designed to meet the needs of pupils with complex learning, communication and physical needs.
Staff work closely with therapists, families and external professionals to provide a truly holistic approach to education and wellbeing. For students considering careers in teaching, educational psychology, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, social work, mental health, nursing or wider SEND professions, the experience gained within these settings is exceptionally valuable. You will develop a practical understanding of inclusive education, EHCP implementation, communication strategies, behaviour support, sensory processing differences and child development in real‑world specialist environments.
What We're Looking For
We would love to hear from you if you have:
- Previous experience supporting children or adults with SEND, SEMH or additional needs
- Voluntary, personal or family experience supporting individuals with SEND
- Relevant academic knowledge through university study
- A genuine passion for inclusive education and supporting young people
- Strong communication and relationship‑building skills
- Patience, empathy and resilience
- The ability to adapt to different school environments
- A positive, proactive and team‑focused approach
Advantages but not essential:
- Team Teach training
- Experience supporting pupils with SLD, PMLD, ASC or complex needs
- Relevant qualifications in Education, Psychology, Child Development or related fields
- Experience working within schools, care settings or youth services
An enhanced DBS check on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one) will be required.
Why Join Axcis Education?
When you register with us, you will benefit from:
- Flexible work that fits around lectures, placements and university commitments
- Opportunities ranging from day‑to‑day supply through to long‑term placements
- Competitive daily pay rates
- A dedicated SEND recruitment consultant who understands your career goals
- Access to a huge network of specialist schools across Bristol and South Gloucestershire
- Ongoing support throughout your placements
- Valuable experience that strengthens applications for postgraduate study, teacher training and graduate roles
Free SEND‑Focused Recognised CPD Through Our National College Partnership. All Axcis candidates can access a range of high‑quality SEND training courses and webinars completely free of charge through our partnership with The National College. Recommended courses include:
- Certificate in The Role of a Learning Support Assistant
- SEND Health and Safety Practice for Pupils with Complex Needs
- Certificate in Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs
- Autism Support Strategy
- Managing Dysregulation for Pupils with Complex SEND
- Trauma‑Informed Practice
- Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)
- Sensory Processing and Sensory Play
- Building Positive Relationships to Manage Behaviour
Participants receive CPD‑certified certificates for completed training, helping strengthen their CV and child‑centred practice.
How to Apply
If you are looking for flexible work that genuinely makes a difference while developing experience highly valued across education, psychology, healthcare and SEND professions, contact Laura Dowson in the Axcis Education South West office to discuss the opportunities available for the 2026/2027 academic year.
Contact: Laura Dowson
Telephone: 0117 472 2400 l Ext: 2014
Equal Opportunities and Safeguarding
Axcis is an equal opportunities employer and as such we do not discriminate based on age, gender, disability, race or any other equal opportunities criteria. The company is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As such, you will be required to provide an up‑to‑date DBS, or be prepared to allow Axcis to process one on your behalf, in addition to other mandatory compliance checks in line with the DfE guidelines. If the position involves working with children or vulnerable adults, this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974.
Axcis Education is an employment agency offering temporary supply work for daily, short‑term and long‑term assignments in addition to permanent positions. You must be suitably qualified for the position advertised and be prepared to attend a face‑to‑face interview with Axcis to demonstrate your suitability for this role. Salary / Pay Rate will be dependent on your skills and experience.
Flexible SEND Teaching Assistant Jobs for UWE & UoB Students - New Academic Year 2026/2027 in Bristol employer: Axcis Education Recruitment
Axcis Education is an exceptional employer for university students seeking flexible SEND Teaching Assistant roles in Bristol and South Gloucestershire. With a strong commitment to inclusive education, Axcis offers valuable hands-on experience, competitive pay, and access to free professional development courses, all while allowing you to balance your studies. The supportive work culture and opportunities for personal growth make it an ideal place for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people with special educational needs.
Contact Details:
Axcis Education Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Flexible SEND Teaching Assistant Jobs for UWE & UoB Students - New Academic Year 2026/2027 in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Chat with your classmates, professors, and anyone in the education field. You never know who might have a lead on a SEND Teaching Assistant role or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in relevant activities! Join clubs or volunteer for events related to SEND. This not only boosts your CV but also shows your commitment and passion for supporting children with additional needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the role. We want to see your enthusiasm and how you can make a difference in the classroom!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in landing that perfect SEND Teaching Assistant job.
We think you need these skills to ace Flexible SEND Teaching Assistant Jobs for UWE & UoB Students - New Academic Year 2026/2027 in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. We want to see how your background in Psychology, Education, or related fields makes you a great fit for supporting children with SEND.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for inclusive education shine through! Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you to work with children and young people with additional needs. We love seeing genuine passion!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts well. This helps us quickly understand your qualifications and why you’d be a fantastic addition to our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can get back to you about the exciting opportunities available.
How to prepare for a job interview at Axcis Education Recruitment
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Familiarise yourself with the different types of needs, like Autism Spectrum Condition and Severe Learning Difficulties. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared to support children effectively.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for inclusive education shine through. Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive your passion for working with children with SEND. This can really set you apart from other candidates!
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle specific situations involving children with SEND. Think about examples from your studies or previous experiences where you've demonstrated patience, empathy, and problem-solving skills. Practising these scenarios can help you feel more confident.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's approach to supporting SEND students or what training opportunities they offer. This shows that you're engaged and serious about making a difference in the role.
