At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with special needs through targeted interventions and motivation.
- Company: Join Mangotsfield School, a rapidly improving community-focused secondary school in Bristol.
- Benefits: Enjoy CPD opportunities, local government pension, discounts, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Fixed term role until August 2026; apply by 16th July for interviews on 26th June.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while working in a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Experience with special educational needs and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Job title: Specialist Education Support Assistant
Salary: CSET9 £28,598 FTE, £23,286 prorated
Hours: 35 hours per week, 39 weeks of the year (term time only + INSET)
Contract type: Fixed term until 31/08/2027
Start date: 1st September 2026
About the role
We are looking for a committed and enthusiastic Education Support Assistant to deliver targeted interventions for students with SEND, supporting them to maintain high expectations and develop their personal aspirations. Working under the direction of the SENDCo, you will help promote the emotional, physical and educational development of pupils from KS3 to KS5.
You will plan and lead 1:1 and small-group interventions, contribute to the Assess-Plan-Do-Review cycle, support learning in and beyond the classroom and build strong relationships with students, staff, parents and external agencies. You will also assist teachers with planning, organising resources, maintaining SEND records and supporting behaviour and safety across the school.
About you
You will bring:
- A good standard of education, including English and Maths.
- Experience working with young people with SEND.
- Strong communication, organisation, patience and compassion.
- Confidence working with secondary students.
- An understanding of effective interventions and how to use data to measure impact.
Desirable: Additional training in evidence-based SEND interventions and experience with provision mapping tools.
About us
Mangotsfield School has been recognised by Ofsted as a "rapidly improving, community focused, ambitious school." In our last inspection we were awarded Good in all categories, a testament to the vision and dedication of the leadership and teaching body.
Mangotsfield School has a strong ethos built on our four values. In all aspects of school life we encourage students to love learning, embrace challenge, give and earn respect and grow our community. Our classrooms, our corridors and our systems are built on these values: this supports our culture where we can meet individual needs and close the gaps for our students.
Mangotsfield School is a local secondary school firmly rooted in, and proudly working within, the community which it serves. The school is situated in pleasant semi-rural surroundings on the north-eastern outskirts of Bristol. Mangotsfield School benefits from being part of a wider trust and partners with Downend School to deliver 16-19 opportunities for all students.
We can offer you
- Happy, engaging students who thrive on inspirational leadership
- A supportive trust and school community
- Strong collaboration across the trust family of schools and access to a centralised team of specialists across all areas of school operations
- A commitment to high-quality CPD, with dedicated time and budget for your development
- A values-driven ethos where diversity, equity and inclusion are lived every day
- Recognition of continuous service (modification order) to protect employment rights and entitlements
- Local Authority Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions and death-in-service cover
- Occupational sick pay to support you during illness or unexpected emergencies
CSET is committed to equal opportunities and encourages applicants from all backgrounds and communities, as we recognise the importance and benefit this has for our pupils.
Specialist Education Support Assistant in Bristol employer: Mangotsfield School
Mangotsfield School in Bristol is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its staff. With a strong emphasis on professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their skills and advance their careers while making a meaningful impact on students' lives. The school's commitment to high expectations and personal aspirations creates a rewarding atmosphere where educators can thrive and contribute to the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist Education Support Assistant in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Understanding the challenges they face and the types of interventions that work best will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former staff at Mangotsfield School. They can provide insights into the school's culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when tailoring your approach in interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully supported students in the past. Highlighting your experience with data-driven interventions will demonstrate your understanding of effective practices.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your commitment to professional development in the field of SEN. Mention any recent training or workshops you've attended, as this reflects your dedication to improving your skills and knowledge.
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist Education Support Assistant in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Specialist Education Support Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Emphasise any previous experience working with children, particularly those with Special Educational Needs. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you have successfully supported students in the past.
Showcase Your Skills:Make sure to showcase your communication and organisational skills in your application. Provide examples of how you've effectively communicated with parents, students, and outside agencies, as well as how you've managed your time and tasks efficiently.
Personalise Your Application:Write a personalised cover letter that reflects your passion for education and your commitment to supporting students. Mention why you want to work at Mangotsfield School specifically and how you align with their values and vision.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mangotsfield School
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children, especially those with Special Educational Needs. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your commitment to helping students achieve their potential.
✨Demonstrate Your Understanding of Effective Interventions
Be prepared to discuss what you believe constitutes an effective intervention. Use examples from your past experience to illustrate how you've successfully implemented strategies that have positively impacted students' learning.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves working with parents, outside agencies, and students, emphasise your strong communication skills. Provide examples of how you've effectively communicated in challenging situations or collaborated with others to support student needs.
✨Prepare for Questions on Data Usage
Understand how to use data to inform your interventions. Be ready to discuss how you've used data in previous roles to assess student progress and adapt your teaching methods accordingly.
