Specialist SEN Teaching Assistant – Complex Needs Support (Bristol)
Full-Time | Term-Time Only | Long-Term Opportunity
For Experienced TAs, SEN Practitioners & Relevant Graduates
We are working closely with a supportive school in Bristol to recruit a Specialist SEN Teaching Assistant to support pupils with complex additional needs, including Autism, communication differences, and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
This role is suited to candidates who already have hands-on experience working with children or young people, particularly in SEN, care, education, or behaviour-focused environments, and who are looking for a meaningful, long-term position where their skills are genuinely valued.
About the Role
You will be working closely with pupils who require consistent, skilled and relationship‑led support to access learning and regulate their emotions. Support may take place 1:1 or in small groups, both in and out of the classroom.
Pupils may present with:
Autism (ASC) and communication needs
Complex learning needs
SEMH and emotional regulation difficulties
Sensory processing differences
Behaviour linked to unmet needs or anxiety
This is a specialist support position for someone confident, reflective and child‑centred in their approach.
Key Responsibilities
Provide targeted 1:1 and small‑group support for pupils with complex needs
Build strong, trusting relationships that promote safety, engagement and progress
Support emotional regulation, behaviour strategies and positive routines
Assist pupils in accessing learning in a way that works for them
Work closely with teachers, SENCOs and external professionals
Follow and contribute to EHCP targets, behaviour plans and support strategies
Promote independence, resilience and confidence
Help maintain a calm, structured and inclusive learning environment
Who We’re Looking For
This role is ideal for candidates who have real, relevant experience, such as:
SEN Teaching Assistants or Learning Support Assistants
Support Workers or Care Practitioners (children or young people)
Behaviour Mentors or SEMH support staff
Residential or community-based support roles
Youth workers or pastoral support practitioners
We also welcome recent graduates (e.g. Psychology, Education, Criminology, Health & Social Care) who have experience working with children or young people in a meaningful capacity.
This role is not suitable for candidates with no relevant experience.
Essential Skills & Experience
Proven experience supporting children or young people (school, care or support settings)
Confidence supporting behaviour, emotional needs or complex SEN
Calm, consistent and emotionally intelligent approach
Strong communication and relationship‑building skills
Ability to work proactively and as part of a team
Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)
Desirable (Not Essential)
Experience supporting Autism or SEMH
Knowledge of trauma‑informed or neurodiversity‑affirming practice
Team Teach or behaviour support training
Experience working with EHCPs
A long‑term interest in SEN or specialist education
What You’ll Receive
Competitive weekly pay via PAYE (no umbrella deductions)
Long‑term stability in a supportive school setting
Access to SEN‑focused CPD (Autism, SEMH, behaviour support, safeguarding)
Ongoing support from a dedicated consultant who understands SEN roles
Opportunity to develop specialist skills and progress within SEN education
A genuinely rewarding role where your experience makes a daily difference
Why This Role Appeals to Strong Candidates
This position is ideal if you are:
Experienced and want your skillset to be properly used
Looking for a role with purpose
Passionate about supporting children with complex needs
Seeking a stable, long‑term SEN role in Bristol
Interested in building depth and progression within SEN education
Apply Now – Specialist SEN Teaching Assistant (Bristol)
If you have relevant experience and are looking for a high‑quality SEN role where your contribution truly matters, we’d love to hear from you.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for 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.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with 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 all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
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