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- Tasks: Support and teach autistic children while gaining hands-on experience in SEN education.
- Company: Jigsaw School, a leading institution for autistic children aged 4-19.
- Benefits: Paid placement, extensive training, term-time only work, and discounts at over 900 retailers.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in psychology and special educational needs with real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience with children with disabilities and a passion for special educational needs.
- Other info: Gain behaviour-specific qualifications and support from top Behaviour Analytic experts.
The predicted salary is between 19000 - 23000 £ per year.
Are you studying Psychology or Education at University? Are you interested in Special Educational Needs and Behaviour Analysis? Are you looking to get one step ahead in your career before leaving university? Jigsaw School, a day school for autistic children aged 4-19, is now recruiting for their sought after 1 year paid work placements for university students, who are looking to develop careers in psychology and special educational needs.
Work placement students will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience of teaching and supporting autistic children whilst accessing a wide range of fully funded training and qualification opportunities in SEN education and Behaviour Analysis. You will also receive support and regular supervision from some of the UK’s leading and internationally recognised Behaviour Analytic experts.
Benefits of a paid work placement at Jigsaw School:- A competitive salary and performance related bonus scheme
- Extensive training and development - all fully funded!
- Term time only working - don’t give up the school holidays just yet
- Work alongside our in-house team of experienced therapists
- Excellent staff wellbeing and support facilities
- Discounts at over 900 retailers via our online Smart Spending platform
- Training & Development during your placement
- Behaviour specific qualifications including CABAS Teaching Assistant ranks and Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT)
- Regular industry training in Safeguarding, Emergency Medication, Behaviour Management, Personal Care, Autism, First Aid and more
- In situ teacher training and observations in the classroom
- Preparing and delivering lessons and activities, focusing largely on communication and life skills
- Within small classes encourage pupils' learning and progression whilst seeking to improve their social and emotional development
- Contributing to research and undertaking training to support your personal development
- Supporting pupils' participation in trips, applying theory-based learning to practice
- Providing behaviourally based support and monitoring pupil progress
- Professional, personal or voluntary experience of working with children with disabilities
- An interest in special educational needs, specifically autism
- Minimum Grade C/4 GCSE in English Language & Maths or equivalent
- Commitment to our regular and ongoing professional development programme and training
- Ability to keep calm in high pressure situations
- A positive, patient, caring and can-do attitude
- Driver's licence or access to a lift (due to remote location of our site)
- Confidence when working with children who exhibit behaviour that challenges and supporting with personal/intimate care
Salary: £26,458 FTE (£23,000 PA Pro rata - based on 36.75 hours per week term time only)
Contract terms: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 8:45am-4:45pm, Tuesday: 8:45am-5:30pm, Friday: 8:45am-4:30pm. Term time only.
Closing Date: Work placements are offered on a first come first served basis, therefore, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. We anticipate that interviews for shortlisted applicants will commence in November/December 2025.
ALL PLACEMENTS REQUIRE A MINIMUM COMMITMENT OF 1 ACADEMIC YEAR AND WILL COMMENCE BETWEEN JULY 2026 AND AUGUST 2026.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Trainee SEN Teacher - Paid Work Placement in Cranleigh employer: Jigsaw Trust
Contact Detail:
Jigsaw Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee SEN Teacher - Paid Work Placement in Cranleigh
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Jigsaw School and understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in their work with autistic children.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or past interns on LinkedIn or social media. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about what the interviewers are looking for.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for behavioural questions! Think of examples from your experience that showcase your skills in patience, communication, and problem-solving. The interviewers will want to see how you handle challenging situations.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about the opportunity and ready to take that next step in your career.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee SEN Teacher - Paid Work Placement in Cranleigh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for working with children, especially those with special educational needs. Share any relevant experiences or coursework that highlight your interest in psychology and autism.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We want to know how you fit into our team at Jigsaw School!
Be Professional Yet Personal: While we appreciate a professional tone, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. A bit of warmth and authenticity can go a long way in making your application stand out.
Apply Early!: Since placements are filled on a first come, first served basis, don’t wait until the last minute. Head over to our careers website and get your application in as soon as possible to avoid disappointment!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jigsaw Trust
✨Know Your SEN Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs, particularly autism. Familiarise yourself with key concepts in behaviour analysis and how they apply to teaching. This will show your genuine interest and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Whether it's professional, personal, or voluntary, be ready to discuss any experience you have working with children, especially those with disabilities. Share specific examples that highlight your patience, caring attitude, and ability to handle challenging situations.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the training opportunities and support you'll receive during your placement. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
✨Stay Calm and Collected
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially when discussing sensitive topics like behaviour management. Practice staying calm under pressure by doing mock interviews with friends or family. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently during the actual interview.
