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- Tasks: Support students 1:1, making learning fun and accessible while ensuring their safety.
- Company: Five Education, a supportive organisation dedicated to helping students with additional needs.
- Benefits: Free specialised training, DBS refund after 20 days, and a friend referral bonus.
- Other info: Full-time role during term time with excellent mentoring support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience in education.
- Qualifications: Interest in supporting children; experience preferred but not essential.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Five Education is looking for full‑time teaching assistants to work in a special school in North Bristol to support students who have a range of additional needs including Down syndrome, autism, ADHD, social emotional mental health (SEMH), learning difficulties and more. The role will be working 1:1 with a student throughout the week. You will provide tailored support to a student with specific educational needs, fostering their academic and personal development. Experience is highly advantageous, but the successful candidate will be compassionate, resilient and comfortable in handling challenging behaviour. This role would ideally suit psychology graduates wanting to learn more about cognitive and behavioural issues or those who have a background in support worker/care assistant. The work won’t be too academically focused but primarily ensure the development of their social and regulating emotional skills. You may also need to support them throughout playtime and lunchtime to ensure their safety. The hours are 8:30–15:30 during term time; full‑time is mandatory.
Main Responsibilities:
- Support students 1:1 by making the curriculum accessible and changing approaches to make learning fun.
- Always ensure the safety and well‑being of students.
- Help students to develop social skills and self‑regulation skills.
- Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCO and other staff members to address individual needs.
- Encourage socialisation and good behaviour through positive reinforcement and praise.
Essential Criteria:
- Have an interest in supporting children/young people, previous experience is preferred.
- Right to work in the UK – we cannot accept sponsorship or skilled worker visa.
- Relevant references and DBS/police checks if necessary.
- Able to work 5 days a week (term time only), 8:30–15:30.
- If you do not have a Non‑Voluntary Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, we will help you process a new one at a cost of £62.70. This will be refunded after 20 days of work with us.
What 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.
Vetting: Five Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all 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 employer: Five
Contact Detail:
Five Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values! Research the special school in North Bristol where you want to work. Understanding their approach to education and the specific needs of the students will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former teaching assistants on LinkedIn or local community groups. They can provide insider tips and might even refer you to opportunities that aren't widely advertised.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to interview, share your experiences and why you're passionate about supporting children with additional needs. Authenticity goes a long way in making a memorable impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to apply for the SEN Teaching Assistant role directly. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team at Five Education!
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting children shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have, whether it's working with children or in a support role. We love seeing how your background aligns with the needs of our students.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the SEN Teaching Assistant role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your journey with us.
How to prepare for a job interview at Five
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a SEN Teaching Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with conditions like autism and ADHD. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and passion for supporting these students during the interview.
✨Show Your Compassion
During the interview, be ready to share examples of how you've shown compassion and resilience in challenging situations. Whether it's through previous work or personal experiences, showing that you can handle difficult behaviour with empathy will set you apart.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask the interviewer about the school environment and the specific needs of the students you'll be working with. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Highlight Teamwork Skills
Since the role involves collaborating with teachers and other staff, be sure to discuss your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team setting, especially in educational or care environments, to support individual needs.