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- Tasks: Teach and support autistic children, focusing on communication and life skills.
- Company: Jigsaw School, a dedicated day school for autistic children aged 4-19.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, extensive training, and term-time only working.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience and qualifications.
- Qualifications: Experience with children with disabilities and a passion for special educational needs.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
Jigsaw School, a day school for autistic children aged 4-19, is now recruiting for a 1‑year paid placement for university students looking to develop a career in psychology and special educational needs. Placement students will gain hands‑on experience teaching and supporting autistic children while accessing fully funded training and qualification opportunities in SEN education and behaviour analysis. You will receive support and regular supervision from leading internationally recognised behaviour analytic experts.
Benefits
- 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
- Behaviour specific qualifications including CABAS Teaching Assistant ranks (cabasschools.org) and Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT) (bacb.com)
- 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
Testimonials
Working at Jigsaw School was an incredible opportunity and I acquired some really valuable experience. I completed a lot of training and gained many professional skills throughout my year. I have felt myself grow both professionally and personally through this placement. I was placed at Jigsaw to benefit and educate the children, but in many ways, they have inspired me.
Responsibilities
- 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
Qualifications
- 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
Placement Commitment
ALL PLACEMENTS REQUIRE A MINIMUM COMMITMENT OF 1 ACADEMIC YEAR AND WILL COMMENCE BETWEEN JULY 2026 AND AUGUST 2026.
Apply
Visit our dedicated careers website at https://careersatjigsaw.co.uk. 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 employer: School & College
Contact Detail:
School & College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee SEN Teacher
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university's career services or connect with alumni who have experience in SEN education. They can offer insights and might even know about openings at Jigsaw School.
✨Tip Number 2
Get hands-on experience! Volunteer or shadow professionals in the field. This not only boosts your CV but also gives you real stories to share during interviews, showing your genuine interest in working with autistic children.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching Jigsaw School’s approach to SEN education. Familiarise yourself with their values and training opportunities so you can demonstrate how you align with their mission.
✨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 joining the team and ready to dive into the world of special educational needs.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee SEN Teacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and interest in special educational needs, especially autism. We want to see how your background aligns with the role of a Trainee SEN Teacher.
Showcase Relevant Experience: Whether it's professional, personal, or voluntary, share any experience you have working with children with disabilities. We love to see how you've engaged with kids and what you've learned from those experiences.
Be Yourself: Let your personality shine through! We’re looking for candidates with a positive, patient, and caring attitude. Don’t be afraid to show us who you are and why you’re passionate about supporting autistic children.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply via our dedicated careers website at https://careersatjigsaw.co.uk. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered for this amazing opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at School & College
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into understanding autism and special educational needs. Familiarise yourself with Jigsaw School's approach and values. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you connect your experiences to their mission.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss any relevant experience you have working with children, especially those with disabilities. Share specific examples of how you've supported learning or managed challenging behaviours. This will demonstrate your capability and commitment to the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few insightful questions about the training opportunities and support systems in place at Jigsaw School. This shows that you're not just interested in the job, but also in your professional development and the well-being of the students.
✨Exude Positivity and Patience
During the interview, let your positive attitude shine through. Highlight your patience and caring nature, as these traits are crucial when working with autistic children. Remember, they want to see how you handle pressure and maintain composure in challenging situations.