Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Teach and support autistic children while gaining hands-on experience in special educational needs.
- Company: Jigsaw School, a day school dedicated to autistic children aged 4-19.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, extensive training, and term-time only working.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your career in psychology and SEN.
- Qualifications: Experience with children with disabilities and a passion for special educational needs.
- Other info: Gain valuable qualifications and support from leading behaviour analytic experts.
Overview
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 improving 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).
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Trainee SEN Teacher (paid placement) employer: School & College
Contact Detail:
School & College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee SEN Teacher (paid placement)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university's career services or connect with alumni who have worked in SEN. They can provide insider tips and might even know about openings at Jigsaw School.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Jigsaw School and understanding their approach to autism education. Show us that you’re genuinely interested in their mission and how you can contribute!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your teaching skills! Consider running a mock lesson for friends or family. This will help you feel more confident and ready to impress during your placement application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the Jigsaw team!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee SEN Teacher (paid placement)
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 our mission at Jigsaw School!
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 made a difference in similar settings!
Be Yourself: Let your personality shine through! We’re looking for candidates who are positive, patient, and caring. Don’t be afraid to show us your can-do attitude in your written application.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to submit your application via our dedicated careers website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can consider you for this exciting 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 handled challenging situations or supported learning, as this will demonstrate your capability and commitment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few insightful questions about the role, training opportunities, or the school's approach to behaviour management. This shows that you're engaged and eager to learn, which is crucial for a Trainee SEN Teacher.
✨Emphasise Your Attitude
Highlight your positive, patient, and caring attitude during the interview. Share instances where you've maintained calm in high-pressure situations, as this is essential when working with children who may exhibit challenging behaviours.
