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- Tasks: Support pupils one-on-one, helping them thrive emotionally and academically.
- Company: Protocol Education, dedicated to making a difference in schools across Durham.
- Benefits: Weekly pay, free training, and term-time only roles for work-life balance.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience that opens doors to teaching and psychology careers.
- Qualifications: Appropriate qualifications and training required for the role.
- Other info: Enjoy a rewarding role with strong support from dedicated consultants.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 16 £ per hour.
Just graduated and wondering what’s next, but not quite ready to jump straight into a classroom or office job?
Working as a 1:1 SEND Support Assistant could be the perfect place to start. At Protocol Education, we work closely with schools across Durham, including Durham City, Chester-le-Street, Consett, Bishop Auckland, Seaham, Peterlee and the surrounding areas, placing graduates into rewarding SEND support roles where they make a real difference every single day.
This is hands-on, meaningful work. You’ll be supporting a pupil on a one-to-one basis, helping them feel safe, understood and confident in school. Some days that means helping with learning, other days it’s about being a calm, consistent presence who helps a child regulate their emotions and access the school day. You’ll build strong relationships, celebrate small wins, and leave knowing your work genuinely mattered.
Lots of our graduates choose SEND support because it’s an incredible stepping stone into teaching, educational psychology, speech and language therapy or wider SEND and pastoral careers. You’ll gain first-hand experience of working with additional needs, behaviour, emotional wellbeing and school systems, experience that looks brilliant on applications and gives you clarity about your next step.
Why Protocol Education? Because we don’t just place you and disappear. You’ll have a dedicated consultant who listens, checks in, and matches you with schools that suit you. You’ll be paid weekly through PAYE, have access to free CPD and SEND training, and get honest guidance from people who know local schools inside out. We also offer free Thrive training, which schools really value and which helps you feel confident supporting pupils’ emotional needs.
The roles are term-time only, so your evenings, weekends and school holidays are your own. It’s full-on during the day, but it comes with balance, structure and a real sense of purpose, something many graduates are looking for.
If you want a role that feels rewarding, builds your experience and opens doors into education or psychology, this could be the one.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQs on the Protocol Education website for further details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
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’, this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
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.
Full assistance provided. For details of our privacy policy, please see visit the Protocol Education website.
Graduate Roles in Schools employer: Protocol Education
Contact Detail:
Protocol Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Roles in Schools
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university alumni, friends, or even family who might have connections in education. A personal recommendation can go a long way in landing that SEND support role.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local community events or workshops related to education. Not only will you gain valuable experience, but you'll also meet people who could help you find job opportunities in schools.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Follow schools and educational organisations on platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. Engage with their posts and stay updated on job openings and events.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing a role. We’re here to support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need guidance or have questions!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Roles in Schools
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for the role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that relate to supporting pupils with additional needs. We want to see how you can make a difference!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm shine through! Share why you're interested in working as a SEND Support Assistant and how it aligns with your career goals. We love seeing genuine passion for helping others.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate when applicants communicate effectively, making it easier for us to understand your strengths.
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 you started on this rewarding journey. We’re excited to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protocol Education
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you understand what being a 1:1 SEND Support Assistant entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and challenges of the role, as well as the skills required. This will help you articulate why you're a great fit and how your background aligns with the job.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
In this role, emotional intelligence is key. Be prepared to share examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated empathy and support for others. Whether it's through volunteering, tutoring, or personal experiences, showing that you can connect with students on an emotional level will set you apart.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the school environment, the specific needs of the pupils you'll be supporting, and the training opportunities available. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility
Working in SEND support often requires adaptability. Be ready to discuss how you've handled unexpected situations in the past and how you can remain calm and effective under pressure. This will demonstrate your readiness for the dynamic nature of the role.
