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Ace Your SEND Education Job Interview

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 06:01:54 Z

The 20-Word Introduction That Gets You the Job: How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” in SEND Interviews

Why First Impressions Matter

Your interview begins long before you finish your first answer. The question “Tell me about yourself” is asked in almost every SEND interview, and many educators lose the interview panel’s attention within 30 seconds.

Why? Because they talk about themselves instead of what matters most: the pupils.

The Mistake Most Education Professionals Make

Interview panels often hear the same introduction again and again:

Qualifications and training dates
Years of experience in order
Job titles and school names
Generic statements like “I enjoy working with children”

The issue? Your CV already tells that story. What interviewers are really asking is: “Why should we choose you for our pupils?”

A Story: TA Sarah’s Turning Point

Sarah, a Teaching Assistant, once began her answer with training dates and school names. She noticed the panel switch off.

At her next interview, she tried a new approach:
“I help non-verbal pupils find their voice and join in with their classmates.”

Twelve words. The panel leaned forward. “That’s exactly what we need, tell me more.”

This time, she got the job.

The 20-Word Interview Rule

Your introduction should be:

Under 20 words
Focused on pupil outcomes
Specific enough to be memorable

Template: “I help [type of pupils] to [key outcome] and [key outcome].”

SEND Interview Examples That May Work Instead

❌ “I’ve worked with SEMH pupils in primary and secondary schools.”

✅ “I help pupils with anxiety and trauma to trust adults, manage emotions and succeed.”

❌ “I’m trained in Makaton and PECS.”

✅ “I give non-verbal pupils tools to communicate, make choices and build friendships.”

❌ “I support pupils with sensory processing difficulties.”

✅ “I help pupils with sensory needs feel regulated, focused and ready to learn.”

Why It Works

A concise, pupil-focused introduction sparks curiosity. It makes the panel picture their own pupils benefiting from your support and invites deeper questions about your approach.

Make Your First Interview Impression Count

Your introduction is more than a formality; it’s your chance to show how you’ll make a difference for children and young people with SEND. Master those first 20 words, and you’ll set yourself apart from the very start.

Download the Free Cheat Sheet

Want to keep these examples handy?

👉 Download our one-page Interview Cheat Sheet for a quick reference to the 20-word rule, sample answers, and a simple action plan.

More Resources for Your SEND Journey

📝 Mastering Your CV: The Ultimate Guide to Landing Your Dream Job

❓ Top 5 Interview Questions for Teachers

🎒 How to Prepare for Your First Day in a SEND Setting

Looking for Your Next SEND Role?

At Axcis, we specialise in SEND recruitment across England and South Wales. By registering with us, you’ll get:

Free CPD training with access to 1,400+ webinars and 180+ online courses through the Axcis Academy
Exclusive SEND opportunities in schools nationwide
The Axcis App to manage your work and admin quickly and easily
Ongoing support from consultants who understand SEND

Register with Axcis today and let us help you find your ideal role.

How to Prepare for Your First Day in a SEND Setting

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 12:00:00 +0100

Starting a new role in a special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) setting is an exciting opportunity, but it’s completely normal to have a few first-day butterflies! Whether you're a seasoned educator stepping into a new environment or supporting children for the very first time, a bit of preparation goes a long way.

Here’s how to set yourself up for success on day one:

1. Confirm the Details

Save your Axcis consultant’s contact details in your phone and keep a hard copy as well in case you misplace your phone and need to contact them for support on the day.
Check the Axcis App beforehand for booking details, including the school’s name, contact person, address, and map link.

Don’t have the Axcis App yet? Download it now on Google Play or the Apple Store.

Plan your journey in advance: Check bus/train timetables or parking options and give yourself extra time for delays.
Understand school-specific policies: Every school is different, so make a note to gather all relevant information from the contact person on arrival.

Examples include:

· The school’s Safeguarding and Behavioural Policies
· EHCP plans for each student that you’ll be supporting
· Ask if there is any information you need to know about the setting or students.

Dress code: All Axcis candidates complete our safeguarding training, which includes key guidance on the appropriate dress code. When in doubt, opt for smart-casual and always avoid jeans, open-toed or high-heeled shoes, or shorts (unless you’re in a PE or outdoor role).

2. Pack the Essentials

Here’s a quick checklist of what to bring:

Notepad, pens, and any stationery you may need for the day
Your photo ID and your DBS certificate
A packed lunch, snacks, and a refillable water bottle

3. Observe, Listen, and Adapt

No two SEND settings are alike. Take time to:

Observe how staff interact with students
Learn the school’s routines and expectations
Identify communication strategies in use (e.g. visuals, Makaton, BSL)

🙋 Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Showing a willingness to learn is always appreciated.

4. Stay Calm and Be Flexible

Working in SEND often means embracing the unexpected. Students may need extra time, or activities may shift midday. Your ability to remain calm, patient, and adaptable is key.

5. Reflect and Check In

At the end of the day, take a moment to reflect:

What went well?
What did you learn?
Is there anything you’d like more support with?

Your Axcis consultant is always happy to hear how it went and guide you if needed.

Bonus Tip: Keep Growing

Want to boost your confidence even further? Registered Axcis candidates get free access to Axcis Academy, our CPD platform powered by The National College, with over 1,400 webinars and 180+ courses tailored to SEND professionals.

👉 Click here to explore Axcis Academy

Still Looking for Your Next Role?

Axcis is always on the lookout for passionate teaching and support staff to join our growing community. Whether you're new to SEND or an experienced professional, we’d love to help you find a rewarding position that fits your skills and interests.

👉 Register with Axcis today

Remember, your presence makes a difference. You’re not just filling a role, you’re helping to shape a better future for the young people you support. Good luck, and enjoy the journey!

Why SEND Education Could Be the Career Move You Didn’t Know You Needed

Wed, 21 May 2025 15:00:00 +0100

Are you feeling stuck, uninspired, or burnt out in your current teaching or classroom support role? Maybe you’ve been in mainstream education for a while and crave more meaningful, one-to-one connections. Or perhaps you're exploring a new career path that allows you to genuinely make a difference every single day.

If this sounds familiar, it might be time to consider a rewarding move into SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) education, and Axcis is here to help.

1. Make a Tangible, Daily Impact

In SEND education, progress looks different, and that’s what makes it powerful. Whether you're helping a non-verbal child communicate using visual communication or supporting an autistic student through their school day, the impact you make is real, measurable, and felt immediately.

👣 Every small step forward is a giant leap for a SEND learner, and you'd become part of that empowering journey.

2. Experience More Meaningful Connections

Working closely with a smaller number of pupils often means you’ll develop strong, trusting relationships. Many SEND professionals say the emotional connection they build with students is what keeps them motivated and fulfilled.

💬 You’re not just delivering lessons; you’re changing lives.

3. Break Free From Burnout

SEND settings tend to offer a slower pace, smaller class sizes, and more support from specialist staff. For many, the move into SEND has reignited their passion for teaching, offering a better balance and deeper sense of purpose.

🌱 Feel re-energised in a role that truly values your presence and input.

4. Gain Specialist Skills and Confidence

With Axcis, you don’t need SEND experience to get started. All you need is a passionate desire, empathy and compassion to commit to empowering and making a positive difference in the lives of children or young people with additional needs like SEND, SEMH (Social, Emotional, Mental Health). We provide free, high-quality CPD through The Axcis Academy in partnership with The National College. With over 180 online courses and 1,400+ on-demand webinars, you can develop your skills at your own pace.

🎓 Learn everything from Autism Awareness to Challenging Behaviour and Mental Health support for students, Safeguarding, and more, with full support from our team.

5. Join a Supportive Network That Puts You First

At Axcis, we specialise in SEND recruitment. That means our consultants understand the schools, the students, and the needs of the people we place. We work with thousands of schools across England and Wales and pride ourselves on matching you with the right role, not just any role.

🤝 Whether you're looking for part-time, full-time, short-term or permanent work, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to Make the Move?

You don’t need to wait for a sign, this is it. If you’re ready to turn your passion for education into purpose-driven work, SEND could be the career move you didn’t know you needed.

👉 Register with Axcis today and start your journey into SEND education:
🔗 https://www.axcis.co.uk/register/

Not for you, but you know someone who might be interested

Axcis offers a generous Refer a Friend program that benefits both you and your friend(s) - everyone wins! Go ahead and click here to learn more.

What Makes a Great SEND Teaching Assistant?

Fri, 09 May 2025 12:00:00 +0100

Working as a SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) Teaching Assistant is one of the most rewarding roles in education, but also one of the most challenging. At Axcis, we believe that behind every successful SEND placement is a Teaching Assistant with a unique blend of compassion, resilience, and adaptability.

So what exactly makes a great SEND TA? Whether you're new to the profession or thinking of registering with Axcis, here are some key qualities schools look for and why they matter so much in the SEND classroom.

1. Patience is Everything

Students with additional needs may require more time to complete tasks, express themselves, or regulate their emotions. A great SEND TA remains calm, supportive, and encouraging, no matter how challenging the day becomes.

🧘 Patience helps build trust and keeps the learning environment safe and consistent.

2. Emotional Resilience

Some days can be tough, emotionally and mentally. A great TA doesn’t take things personally and can bounce back with positivity. They are calm in a crisis and can provide steady support during difficult moments.

💪 Your resilience creates stability for the students who need it most.

3. Strong Communication Skills

Whether it’s verbal, visual, or non-verbal communication (such as Makaton or BSL), being able to understand and be understood is essential. Great TAs also communicate well with teachers, parents, and therapists.

🗣️ Every successful team starts with good communication.

4. Teamwork & Initiative

SEND TAs are often part of a larger team that includes teachers, support staff, and external specialists. Being a team player who can also take initiative makes a huge difference in how seamlessly the classroom runs.

🤝 You’re never working alone, but your contribution matters every single day.

5. Flexibility & Adaptability

Plans often change, especially in SEND environments. A great TA adapts their approach to meet the needs of each student and is ready to shift roles, techniques, or expectations at a moment’s notice.

🔄 Being flexible means you’re always putting the student’s needs first.

6. Desire to Learn and Grow

SEND education is constantly evolving. Great TAs actively seek out opportunities to learn new strategies and interventions. At Axcis, we support this with free access to 180+ online CPD courses through The Axcis Academy.

🎓 Professional development empowers you and your students.

Could You Be a Great SEND TA?

If you're passionate about making a difference, love working with children or young people with special educational needs and disabilities, and have the right mindset, this could be the perfect job role for you. At Axcis, we work with schools across England and Wales to place amazing people like you in meaningful SEND roles.

👉 Ready to take the next step?

Challenges I face while working as a TA and how I overcome them

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0100

We asked our teaching assistants what sort of challenges they face while working in the classroom, and how they overcome them. The answers were so useful and insightful that we felt they would be great for anyone who is currently a TA, or thinking about becoming one.

Behaviour Tips

Managing challenging behaviour can be one of the trickiest parts of the job for many teachers and members of school support staff – so how do our teaching assistants overcome this?

"One of the biggest challenges I have faced during my time in the classroom is working with children with behavioural difficulties and hyperactivity, who find very difficult to follow rules and stick to them. Most of the time they refuse to do the assigned tasks and cause disruption among the class or get involved in any sort of fight or exhibit rude behaviours towards me, teachers and classmates. When these situations happen I try to give them a time out in a different place or environment in order to think over their behaviours. It is important that they understand why their behaviour is being disruptive and its consequences."

"Managing the children’s behaviour and attitude can sometimes be a challenge. I overcame this by reassuring them and advising them to have a positive attitude and respect other children as well as members of staffI worked with some very challenging young people who had experienced some very difficult situations for their ages. I taught some lessons with some very challenging and some times potentially violent behaviours; using past experiences and the training offered to me by the school I was able to manage their behaviours, understand them and help to come to a solution suitable for all involved."

"Working with children who display challenging behaviour – for example children with Autism and ADHD – I had to find new strategies to use that work for each child as an individual, for example, allowing them to listen to music quietly while they work as one child I worked with music helps keep them calm and introduce targets and rewards for achieving those targets."

"One of my biggest challenges has been trying to calm a child down when there’s another child “kicking off” in the class. I overcome this issue by leading them outside the door and having a calm chat. I’ve got to know a lot about the child I work with, and I have found that talking helps to keep them calm while loud or stressful situations in the classroom get resolved."

"Learning how to deal with challenging behaviours. To overcome this challenge, I have worked on changing my views and researching emotional intelligence. Ross Greene’s work and having more empathy helped me improve my practice."

"Being around aggression was a challenge with some of the pupils I’ve worked with. The staff in my teams have been excellent and showed me how to handle situations in the best and safest way. It’s important to seek support from your peers who often know the students better – especially when you’re new to the job."

Getting to know the school/pupils

Being new to a school or provision means you’re often flying blind, but what can you do to overcome this?

"Not understanding the needs of a particular pupil. I overcame this by working with them more and communicating with my team for support and advice."

"Quickly getting to know the school policies and procedures was a challenge. I overcame this by listening carefully, watching what was going on and asking questions when I needed to."

"Working with older students at a secondary school has been a challenge. I’ve always worked with younger children. Initially, the older students were very dismissive towards my support. Techniques I’ve used in the past with younger students didn’t work, so I had to start again from scratch. I didn’t give up, proved to the students they could trust me and over time they became much more accepting of my support."

"I think the most challenging thing about the job is trying to do everything at once. You’ll be juggling at certain times, perhaps a child will be crying, you’ll be doing book bags, nobody’s listening and the class teacher needs you to do something else. But the trick is to stay calm and not lose your temper!"

"My biggest challenge was working every day with the same child. This was a particular challenge because of their inability to focus for long period’s of time. However, I was able to implement a plan throughout my time at the school, which meant that the child had movement and sensory breaks. Once these were introduced with the support of my class teacher, the lesson became a easier for both of us. I had quite a bit of support and encouragement with this."

"Working one-to-one with a student over a long period can be very challenging, as it can be very repetitive and also draining, when you don’t see the progress you hoped for. Learning to be patient and focusing on the needs of the student and what’s best for them, helped me to make new determined efforts to develop and improve the ways in which I can support them."

SEND Challenges

Every special needs child is different, so whether you’re an experienced SEND pratitioner or not, working with children who have special educational needs or disabilities often comes with it’s fair share of difficult situations. Here are some ideas for handling them.

"Working with SEN pupils has been my biggest challenge, but each day I’m learning new ways of improving as well as learning from other TA’s in my organisation."

"Working with a student who has autism, mental health, and gender issues. You don’t actually overcome these, you have to work with them in mind at all times as you are dealing with a very confused child who is struggling with her gender let alone Autism and Mental Health issues, all this has to be kept in mind. I have been working with this student for a long time, and have built up a good working relationship and have put in place things to help her get through her day, and have arranged for outside workers to come in to talk to the student about her gender issues which has helped a lot."

"My biggest challenge has been working with children with special needs. However I have overcome many issues by reading all about different SEND conditions and using appropriate support methods as much as I can."

"Working with a young girl with Down’s Syndrome and possibly autism has been incredibly challenging. Keeping my cool was very important and learning strategies for coping from other TAs."

"Well I had never worked as a TA before so it was a all new to me, but the biggest challenge was adapting to all the different needs that the children have, as they are special needs children they are all so different. I love a challenge and am willing to learn and grow so I threw myself into it and made sure I learnt about every child I worked with."

"My biggest challenges have been working in a PRU, witnessing some of the daily struggles young children face but working with a strong and dedicated team of staff who are so supportive helps you to get through the challenges you face on a daily basis."

"My biggest challenge was to introduce a child to PECS on my own, but today I know that is possible!"

Thank you to all our teaching assistants who took the time to respond to our questionnaire. We think that these responses can offer some fantastic ideas and guidance to other staff who are new to TA work or supporting children with types of SEND which they are perhaps new to working with.

Not sure if TA work is for you? Take our quiz!

If you’re not sure whether you would be suited to working as a teaching assistant, why not take our quiz? It only takes a few minutes, so why not give it a try?

Or check out our jobs pages for TA vacancies

Or if you’re seeking a job as a teaching assistant, why not register with Axcis or check out our jobs pages? We also run a generous refer-a-friend scheme, so if you want to earn up to £250 in shopping vouchers just for helping a friend to find work, why not get in touch with their details today?