At a Glance
- Tasks: Support autistic pupils using sensory strategies and play-based learning.
- Company: Protocol Education, dedicated to children's welfare and development.
- Benefits: Weekly pay, free CPD, 1:1 consultant support, and career guidance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while kickstarting your OT career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Occupational Therapy (or in progress) and experience with children.
- Other info: Ideal for OT graduates seeking hands-on experience in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Newcastle Upon Tyne
Contract: Full-time, Long-term
Start Date: Immediate
Looking to put your Occupational Therapy skills into action?
If you’re an OT graduate (or currently completing your degree) and want hands-on experience supporting children with additional needs, this could be your ideal role.
We’re working with a primary school in Westerhope, who are looking for Occupational Therapists to help support autistic pupils in Year 1, where your understanding of sensory regulation, play-based interventions, and child development will make a huge difference every single day.
The role includes:
- 1:1 and small group support for autistic pupils in Year 1
- Using sensory strategies and play-based learning to boost engagement
- Supporting regulation and routines in a structured environment
- Working alongside teachers and SEN specialists to adapt interventions
What you bring:
- A degree in Occupational Therapy (or in progress)
- Experience supporting children with autism or additional needs (clinical or school-based)
- Creativity, patience, and strong communication skills
- A genuine passion for helping children thrive
What you’ll get with Protocol Education:
- Weekly pay through PAYE (no umbrella deductions)
- Free CPD, including Thrive training to boost your SEND toolkit
- 1:1 consultant support and career guidance
- Opportunities to build a career in SEND, schools, or therapy settings
This role is a fantastic stepping stone if you’re aiming for a paediatric OT career, or simply want to use your therapeutic skills in a meaningful education setting.
Apply today and take the next step in your OT journey.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role.
Protocol Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with the DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’.
We offer FREE online safeguarding and Prevent Duty training to all our workers. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and subscribe to the DBS Update Service.
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SEND Support Assistant - Perfect for OT Graduates employer: Protocol Education Ltd
Contact Detail:
Protocol Education Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Support Assistant - Perfect for OT Graduates
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university's alumni or local OT groups. They might have leads on job openings or even be able to refer you directly to schools looking for SEND Support Assistants.
✨Tip Number 2
Get hands-on experience! Volunteer at local schools or community centres to gain practical skills. This not only boosts your CV but also shows potential employers your commitment to working with children with additional needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEND support. Think about how your OT training can be applied in real-life scenarios, especially with autistic pupils. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we offer tailored support to help you land that perfect role in SEND.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Support Assistant - Perfect for OT Graduates
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your Occupational Therapy skills in your application. We want to see how your understanding of sensory regulation and play-based interventions can make a difference for the children you'll be supporting.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We love it when you personalise your cover letter and CV to reflect the specific role. Mention your experience with autistic pupils and how you can contribute to their development.
Be Genuine: Let your passion for helping children shine through in your application. We’re looking for candidates who genuinely care about making a positive impact, so don’t hold back on sharing your motivations!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity right away!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protocol Education Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of sensory regulation and play-based interventions. Be ready to discuss how these strategies can be applied in a classroom setting, especially for autistic pupils. This will show that you’re not just qualified but also genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've supported children with autism or additional needs. Whether it's through clinical placements or volunteer work, having concrete stories will help you stand out and demonstrate your hands-on skills.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the school’s approach to supporting SEND students or how they implement sensory strategies. This shows that you’re engaged and serious about the role, plus it gives you a better understanding of the environment you might be working in.
✨Be Yourself
Let your passion for helping children shine through during the interview. Authenticity goes a long way, so don’t be afraid to share why you chose Occupational Therapy and what drives you to support children with additional needs. Your enthusiasm can be just as important as your qualifications!