Job Description

Trainee SEN Teaching Assistant - Special School (Yate) Hours: 8.30am - 3.30pm Pay: From 13.70 per hour Contract: Term-time only | Full-time Location: Yate, South Gloucestershire Interested in working in education, but not sure where to start? If you're the kind of person who's calm, curious, and keen to understand how young people learn - especially those with additional needs - this could be the opportunity you've been looking for. Axcis Education is working in partnership with a fantastic special school in Yate, supporting them to find a trainee teaching assistant who wants to gain real, hands-on experience in a meaningful, rewarding setting. About the school This is a well-regarded SEND setting with a strong reputation locally for its compassionate, student-centred approach. The pupils here have a range of needs - including autism, profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD), and sensory processing differences. Support is personalised, and learning is creative, practical, and rooted in connection and trust. The staff team is experienced and supportive, and the school offers excellent training and ongoing development for those new to the field. This is a brilliant place to build confidence, learn from experienced professionals, and see what working in special education is really all about. No experience? No problem. This is a trainee role, so the school isn't expecting you to come in as an expert. They're looking for someone with the right mindset - someone who's: Warm, reliable, and open to learning Interested in supporting young people with complex needs A great communicator who can build trust and relationships Calm, grounded, and able to stay positive in challenging moments Ready to work as part of a team and get stuck in If you've worked in care, early years, youth work, or even just had informal experience supporting someone with additional needs, that's a bonus - but it's not essential. What you'll be doing: Your days will be varied and practical. You'll work closely with class teachers and other support staff to: Support students with communication, sensory, and physical needs Deliver learning activities, often through play, movement, music, and creative sessions Use alternative communication systems such as PECS or Makaton (training provided) Help with regulation and emotional support Assist with personal care where needed Join in with therapy sessions, outdoor learning, and off-site activities Create a safe, positive environment where each pupil feels understood and respected Why this role matters For the right person, this kind of role can be a launchpad - whether you're thinking about a future in teaching, therapy, youth work, or care. You'll gain: Real experience working with children with complex additional needs A deeper understanding of inclusive education and how different pupils learn The chance to reflect on your next steps with confidence and clarity Free training and professional development through Axcis Education Why work with Axcis? Axcis Education is the UK's leading recruitment agency specialising in SEND. With long-standing partnerships across South Gloucestershire and beyond, Axcis offers: Competitive weekly pay (from 13.70 per hour) A dedicated consultant to support you every step of the way Free access to CPD and training Ongoing roles and opportunities for those who want to grow within education A genuinely supportive and personal approach What's next? Click 'apply' to send over your CV (it doesn't need to be perfect, just up to date). If you'd like to know more before applying, contact Laura in the Axcis South West and Wales office for a friendly chat about the role and school. This is a chance to start something meaningful - and to do it in a school that truly understands the power of care, connection, and learning at the right pace. INDSW
If you are interested, then please click on the apply button and contact Laura Dowson on 0117 472 2400 l Ext: 2014.
If you are not interested in this role but know someone else who might be, don't forget that we offer 50 in shopping vouchers if you refer a friend to us and we place them in the job. For more details, contact your local Axcis office.
This is a temporary position, unless stated otherwise.
Axcis is an equal opportunities employer and as such we do not discriminate based on age, gender, disability, race or any other equal opportunities criteria.
The company is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
As such, you will be required to provide an up to date DBS, or be prepared to allow Axcis to process one on your behalf, in addition to other mandatory compliance checks in line with the DfE guidelines (for details please see our website).
Axcis Education is an employment agency offering temporary supply work for daily, short-term and long-term assignments in addition to permanent positions.
You must be suitably qualified for the position advertised and be prepared to attend a face to face interview with Axcis to demonstrate your suitability for this role.
Salary / Pay Rate will be dependent on your skills and experience.
Contact: Laura Dowson
Telephone: 0117 472 2400 l Ext: 2014