At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with complex needs in a specialist SEND school, adapting your approach to individual requirements.
- Company: Join Axcis Education, a leader in providing support for children and young people.
- Benefits: Earn from £14.25/hour, gain valuable experience, and receive ongoing training.
- Other info: Gain hands-on experience and develop skills for future roles in educational psychology or therapy.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children while building your career in psychology or education.
- Qualifications: Psychology graduates eager to learn and support diverse learning needs.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 30000 £ per year.
Location: BS35
Salary: From £14.25/hour
Contract: Monday-Friday, 8.30-15.30, term-time only
The Role (Starting September 2026)
As a Psychology graduate, you will support children and young people with complex needs in a specialist SEND school. You will work as part of a multi-disciplinary team, supporting pupils aged 2–19 with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD) who have autism, communication needs and complex sensory profiles. The setting takes a holistic, therapeutic approach with a strong focus on communication, sensory regulation and relationship-based learning.
Responsibilities
- Provide 1:1 and small group support, adapting your approach to meet highly individual needs
- Support pupils with communication and interaction using tools such as PECS, Makaton, visual timetables and sensory-based strategies
- Assist with personal care and physical support where required, ensuring dignity and respect at all times
- Help deliver individualised, EHCP-led learning programmes, tailored to each pupil’s developmental stage
- Observe behaviour as a form of communication, learning how to de-escalate and support emotional regulation
- Contribute to a calm, structured and engaging learning environment
- Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists (Speech & Language, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy) and families
What You’ll Gain From This Role
- A deep understanding of complex needs, autism and sensory processing differences
- Practical experience in alternative communication methods (AAC, Makaton, PECS)
- Insight into behaviour as communication, and how to respond therapeutically rather than reactively
- Experience supporting physical, emotional and cognitive development in a holistic way
- Confidence working within a multi-disciplinary team, mirroring real-world clinical and educational settings
- First-hand exposure to EHCP processes and personalised learning plans
- Training & CPD – Our Partnership with The National College
- Certificate in the Role of a Learning Support Assistant
- Understanding Autism and Neurodiversity in the Classroom
- Safeguarding Children (Level 1 & 2)
- Behaviour Management and De-escalation Strategies
- SEND Code of Practice and EHCP Training
- Supporting Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN)
- Trauma-Informed Practice in Education
Who This Would Suit
- Psychology graduates looking to build experience ahead of further study
- Individuals considering careers in Educational Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Speech & Language Therapy or Teaching
- Those with a genuine interest in SEND, behaviour and child development
Personal Qualities
- Curious, reflective and eager to learn
- Patient, observant and able to build strong, trusting relationships
- Comfortable working in a hands-on, practical environment
Why This Role?
Full academic year placement to build consistent, in-depth experience strengthening applications for postgraduate study, teacher training (PGCE) or therapy-based careers. Ongoing support, structured development and opportunities for progression across the academic year and beyond.
Additional Information
This is a temporary position, unless stated otherwise. Axcis is an equal opportunities employer and 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. All staff must provide an up-to-date DBS (or allow Axcis to process one) and meet other mandatory compliance checks in line with DfE guidelines. If the position involves working with children or vulnerable adults, the 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.
Psychology Graduate Opportunity - Specialist Learning Support in Bristol employer: Axcis Education Recruitment
Axcis Education is an exceptional employer for psychology graduates seeking meaningful experience in the field of special educational needs. Located in BS35, the company fosters a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development through comprehensive training and CPD opportunities, ensuring employees are well-equipped to make a positive impact on the lives of children with complex needs. With a focus on collaboration within a multi-disciplinary team, Axcis offers a unique environment where staff can grow their skills while contributing to a holistic, therapeutic approach to education.
Contact Details:
Axcis Education Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Psychology Graduate Opportunity - Specialist Learning Support in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university alumni, professors, or even friends who are already in the field. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your social media game on point! Follow organisations and professionals in the SEND sector on platforms like LinkedIn. Engage with their posts and share your insights; it shows you're passionate and can help you get noticed.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEND and psychology. Think about how your experiences align with the role and be ready to share specific examples. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We have loads of resources and support to help you land that perfect role. Plus, it’s a great way to show your enthusiasm for working with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Psychology Graduate Opportunity - Specialist Learning Support in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that are relevant to the Specialist Learning Support role. Highlight any experience you have with SEND, communication methods, or working in a multi-disciplinary team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about supporting children with complex needs and how your psychology background makes you a great fit for this role.
Showcase Your Soft Skills:In this role, personal qualities like patience, observance, and the ability to build trusting relationships are key. Make sure to include examples of these traits in your application to show us you’re the right person for the job.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Axcis Education Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of complex needs, autism, and sensory processing differences. Familiarise yourself with tools like PECS and Makaton, as well as the EHCP processes. This will show that you're not just a psychology graduate, but someone who understands the specific challenges faced in a specialist SEND school.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your genuine interest in SEND and child development shine through. Share any relevant experiences or insights you've gained during your studies or placements. Employers love to see candidates who are not only qualified but also truly passionate about making a difference in children's lives.
✨Practice Behaviour Management
Be prepared to discuss how you would handle challenging behaviours. Think about examples where you've observed behaviour as communication and how you might de-escalate situations. This is crucial in a role that requires patience and understanding, so having a few strategies up your sleeve will impress the interviewers.
✨Team Player Mindset
Since you'll be working within a multi-disciplinary team, highlight your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of past teamwork experiences, especially in educational or therapeutic settings. Emphasising your willingness to learn from others and contribute to a calm, structured environment will resonate well with the interviewers.
