SEN Teaching assistant (experienced)

SEN Teaching assistant (experienced)

Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Five Education

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support pupils with SEND in a specialist school, providing 1:1 and group assistance.
  • Company: Five Education, known for excellent supply experiences in Bristol.
  • Benefits: Free specialised training, DBS refund after 20 days, and mentoring support.
  • Other info: Flexible hours available; part-time applicants welcome.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience.
  • Qualifications: Experience with SEND, strong communication skills, and a nurturing approach.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

We're looking for an experienced and dedicated SEND Teaching Assistant to work within a specialist provision school in Bristol, supporting pupils with a range of additional needs. This role is ideal for someone who is confident supporting pupils with SEND and is passionate about helping children access education in a supportive and structured environment. Full-time availability is preferred, however part-time applicants will also be considered.

The role includes:

  • Providing 1:1 and small group support for pupils with SEND
  • Supporting pupils with learning, communication, and emotional regulation
  • Working closely with teachers and SENCOs to support EHCP targets and individual learning plans
  • Helping to create a structured, safe, and engaging learning environment

We're looking for someone who:

  • Has previous experience working with pupils with SEND
  • Is patient, resilient, and nurturing in their approach
  • Is confident supporting pupils with a range of additional needs
  • Has strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Understands the importance of safeguarding and child welfare

A background working in a specialist SEND or alternative provision setting is highly desirable.

Essential requirements:

  • Right to work in the UK - we are unable to offer Sponsorship or accept Skilled Worker visas.
  • Able to provide two recent references (from the last two years).
  • Hold a current DBS check registered on the Update Service, or be willing to apply for one.

What can Five Education offer you?

  • Free specialised training in areas such as Team Teach, Makaton, PMLD/SLD Awareness, Autism Awareness, and more.
  • Free DBS (refunded when you work 20 days).
  • Recommending a friend bonus scheme.
  • Specialist support/mentoring while you are working.

If you think this could be a job for you, please get in touch to find out more from Joseph. We are always available for an informal chat if you want to find out more about whether this role is suited to you.

Pay: Five Education operates a PAYE payroll; this is the most transparent way to be paid with no hidden fees such as admin fee or employer's NI. Please note pay rate is for illustration and does include holiday pay.

Vetting: Five Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all of the staff we employ to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to undergo checks including reference checks, TRA checks and will need to have a DBS; there will also be an interview.

We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates as they are currently under-represented at this level.

SEN Teaching assistant (experienced) employer: Five Education

Five Education is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing work environment for SEND Teaching Assistants in Bristol. With a strong focus on professional development, we provide free specialised training and mentoring, ensuring our staff are well-equipped to make a meaningful impact in the lives of pupils with additional needs. Our commitment to safeguarding and promoting child welfare, combined with a transparent PAYE payroll system, makes us a trusted choice for those seeking rewarding employment in education.

Five Education

Contact Details:

Five Education Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land SEN Teaching assistant (experienced)

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEND. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEND support. Think about your experiences and how they align with the role. We want you to showcase your passion and skills confidently!

Tip Number 3

Don’t forget to highlight your unique experiences! Whether it’s specific training or a particular success story with a pupil, make sure to share these during your conversations. It helps us see how you can make a difference.

Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love hearing from passionate candidates who are eager to join our team and support pupils with SEND.

We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching assistant (experienced)

Experience with SEND
1:1 and small group support
Learning support
Communication skills
Emotional regulation support
Teamwork skills
Understanding of safeguarding

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your previous experience working with pupils with SEND. We want to see how you've supported children in similar roles, so share specific examples that showcase your skills and dedication.

Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the job description. Mention how your approach aligns with our values of patience, resilience, and nurturing support for pupils with additional needs.

Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Use bullet points if necessary to make your key skills and experiences stand out!

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly, and you can easily track its progress. Plus, we love seeing applications come through our platform!

How to prepare for a job interview at Five Education

Know Your SEND Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Familiarise yourself with common challenges pupils face and how to support them effectively. This will show your passion and commitment during the interview.

Showcase Your Experience

Prepare specific examples from your previous roles where you've successfully supported pupils with SEND. Highlight your patience, resilience, and any strategies you've used to help children access education. Real-life stories can make a big impact!

Team Player Vibes

Since you'll be working closely with teachers and SENCOs, emphasise your teamwork skills. Be ready to discuss how you've collaborated in the past to achieve EHCP targets or individual learning plans. This will demonstrate that you're not just a lone wolf!

Ask Thoughtful Questions

At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the school's approach to safeguarding or how they support their staff. This shows you're genuinely interested in the role and want to ensure it's the right fit for you.