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    <title>Blog Home</title>
    <link>http://nz.axcis.co.uk/blog/</link>
    <description>Welcome to the Axcis blog. On these pages, you will find useful SEND resources, details of training events, giveaways and upcoming events. We also feature guest blogs from SEND professionals, companies and influencers, so if you have something to say and would like to write an article for us, why not get in touch today?</description>
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      <guid isPermaLink="false">2073</guid>
      <link>http://nz.axcis.co.uk/blog/articles/2026/07/08/attachment-difficulties-guide-for-education-supply-staff/</link>
      <category>SEND Resources</category>
      <category>candidates</category>
      <category>Candidate Resources</category>
      <category>Supply Staff Resources</category>
      <category>Attachment Disorders</category>
      <category>Attachment Difficulties</category>
      <title>Attachment Difficulties in Schools: A Practical Guide for SEND Teachers and Teaching Assistants</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;Starting a new placement can feel exciting, but it can also bring uncertainty, especially if you're supporting pupils with additional needs for the first time.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Whether you're working as a SEND supply teacher, teaching assistant, learning support assistant or behaviour support professional, understanding attachment difficulties can help you build positive relationships, respond confidently to challenging situations and make a meaningful difference from your very first day.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;At Axcis Education, we place SEND professionals into schools across England and South Wales every day. This practical guide explains what attachment difficulties are, how they may present in the classroom, and how you can provide supportive, consistent care while following each school's policies and procedures.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 25px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font22px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;What are attachment difficulties?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Attachment describes the emotional bond a child develops with their primary caregivers during their earliest years.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;When children experience consistent, responsive care, they are more likely to develop secure attachments that help them feel safe, build healthy relationships and regulate their emotions.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Some children, however, experience early adversity such as neglect, trauma, abuse, bereavement or disrupted caregiving. These experiences can affect how they trust adults, manage emotions and respond to everyday situations.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;You may also hear the term &lt;strong&gt;attachment disorder&lt;/strong&gt;. While attachment difficulties are relatively common, diagnosed attachment disorders such as Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) are rare and can only be diagnosed by appropriately qualified healthcare professionals.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;As a SEND education professional, your role isn't to diagnose children. Your role is to understand that behaviour often communicates an unmet need and to respond with patience, consistency and professionalism.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 25px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px font22px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Why does this matter for SEND supply staff?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;One of the biggest concerns new SEND supply staff have is:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;"What if I say or do the wrong thing?"&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The good news is that you don't need to be an attachment specialist to make a positive difference.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Children experiencing attachment difficulties often benefit from adults who are:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Calm&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Consistent&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Patient&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Predictable&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Reliable&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Even if you're only in a classroom for one day, your approach can help a child feel safer and more settled.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 25px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px font22px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;What might you notice in the classroom?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Every child is different, but pupils experiencing attachment difficulties may:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Find it difficult to trust unfamiliar adults.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Become anxious during transitions.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Need additional reassurance.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Appear withdrawn or unusually quiet.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;React strongly to changes in routine.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Challenge boundaries or classroom expectations.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Become upset more quickly than other pupils.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Struggle to regulate their emotions.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Find friendships difficult.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Prefer to work alone or avoid asking for help.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;It's important to remember that these behaviours may also be linked to autism, ADHD, anxiety, trauma or other SEND needs.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Avoid making assumptions. Instead, focus on understanding the individual child and following the guidance provided by the school.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 25px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px font22px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Practical tips for your first day in a new classroom&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Every school works differently, but these simple approaches can help you settle into any SEND environment.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h3 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Introduce yourself calmly&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Children experiencing attachment difficulties may take longer to build trust.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;There's no need to force conversation. A friendly smile, calm voice and consistent approach often speak louder than lots of words.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h3 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Follow the SENDCo/SENCO or Class Teacher's lead&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Every classroom has established routines.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Ask questions such as:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Is there anything I should know about the pupils I'll be supporting today?&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Are there any strategies that work particularly well?&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Is there anything I should avoid?&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Experienced teachers know their pupils well, and their guidance is invaluable.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h3 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Be consistent&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Children often feel safer when adults are predictable.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Try to:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Follow classroom routines.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Use the same expectations as other staff.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Avoid changing agreed strategies.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Give clear, simple instructions.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Consistency builds confidence.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h3 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Stay calm during challenging moments&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Some behaviours may feel personal, but they rarely are.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;If a pupil becomes upset or dysregulated:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Keep your voice calm.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Give the child time where appropriate.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Follow the school's behaviour policy.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Ask for support if needed.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Avoid arguing or escalating the situation.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Remember that you're there to support, not to win a confrontation.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h3 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Build trust gradually&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Relationships take time.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Rather than trying to become a child's favourite adult immediately, focus on being:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Friendly&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Reliable&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Respectful&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Consistent&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Small positive interactions throughout the day often have the greatest impact.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 25px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px font22px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Things to avoid&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;If you're new to SEND, it's natural to want to fix every situation quickly.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Instead, try to avoid:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Taking behaviour personally.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Raising your voice unnecessarily.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Making promises you can't keep.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Publicly challenging or embarrassing pupils.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Introducing new behaviour strategies without speaking to school staff.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Assuming you know a child's background.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Your role is to support the school's existing approach rather than creating a new one.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 25px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px font22px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;When should you ask for help?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;You should never feel that you need to manage everything alone.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;If you're unsure about a pupil or situation:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Speak with the class teacher.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Ask the SENCO or another member of staff for guidance.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Follow safeguarding procedures if you have concerns.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Report significant incidents according to school policy.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Asking questions shows professionalism; it doesn't show weakness.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 25px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px font22px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Looking after yourself too&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Working in SEND can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be emotionally demanding.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Remember to:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Reflect on your experiences.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Ask colleagues for advice.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Continue developing your SEND knowledge.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Make use of training opportunities available through Axcis.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Celebrate the small wins - they matter.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;No one expects you to know everything on your first placement.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Every classroom experience helps you grow in confidence.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 25px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px font22px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Further reading&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;If you'd like to learn more about attachment difficulties, these trusted organisations provide excellent information:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;a rel="noopener" href="https://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/topics/attachment-disorder.html" target="_blank" title="Counselling Directory - What is Attachment Disorder"&gt;&lt;span class="purple_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Counselling Directory&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/a&gt; - A comprehensive guide to attachment difficulties, attachment styles, signs and available support.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;a rel="noopener" href="https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/child-health-development/attachment-early-years" target="_blank" title="NSPCC Learning - Attachment and Child Development"&gt;&lt;span class="purple_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;NSPCC Learning&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/a&gt; - Information about attachment, early childhood development and the importance of secure relationships.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;a rel="noopener" href="https://www.annafreud.org/" target="_blank" title="Anna Freud - Children's Mental Health"&gt;&lt;span class="purple_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Anna Freud&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/a&gt; - Evidence-informed resources on children's mental health, emotional wellbeing and trauma-informed practice.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 25px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px font22px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Continue developing your SEND knowledge with The Axcis Academy&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Supporting pupils with attachment difficulties is a skill that develops with experience and ongoing learning.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;As an Axcis candidate, you can access &lt;a rel="noopener" href="/candidates/cpd-training-and-career-development/" target="_blank"&gt;&lt;span class="red_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;The Axcis Academy&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/a&gt;, which offers accredited CPD courses in partnership with &lt;strong&gt;The National College&lt;/strong&gt;, giving you &lt;a rel="noopener" href="/candidates/cpd-training-and-career-development/" target="_blank"&gt;free access to an extensive library of CPD designed&lt;/a&gt; specifically for education professionals.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Whether you're new to SEND or looking to build on your existing experience, you'll find training covering topics such as:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Safeguarding and child protection&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;SEND awareness&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Autism&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;ADHD&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;SEMH&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Behaviour support&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Trauma-informed practice&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Mental health and wellbeing&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Classroom management&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Professional development&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;With more than &lt;strong&gt;1,400 webinars and 180+ online courses&lt;/strong&gt; available, it's an excellent way to build your confidence, strengthen your knowledge and prepare for future SEND placements.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 25px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px font22px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Frequently Asked Questions&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;h3 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Do I need specialist training to support pupils with attachment difficulties?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;
&lt;p&gt;No. While additional SEND training is always valuable, being calm, patient, consistent and willing to learn can make a real difference.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h3 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;What if I don't know a child's background?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;
&lt;p&gt;That's completely normal.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Many schools won't share detailed personal information unless it's relevant to your role. Focus on following the guidance provided by the class teacher, SENDCo/SENCO and responding professionally.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h3 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Should I tell a child how to behave?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Always follow the school's behaviour policy and the guidance of permanent staff. Consistency is important, particularly if you're working in a supply role.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h3 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Can supply staff make a difference?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/h3&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Absolutely.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Although some placements last just a day, every positive interaction matters. Children benefit from adults who are respectful, patient and dependable, regardless of how long they're in the classroom.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 1.4; text-transform: none; margin-top: 25px; margin-bottom: 10px;"&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px font22px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Ready for your next SEND opportunity?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Working in SEND is about far more than delivering lessons or providing classroom support. It's about helping children feel safe enough to learn, grow and achieve their potential.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Whether you're taking your first step into SEND education or looking for your next placement, Axcis Education is here to support you every step of the way.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;We work with SEND teachers, teaching assistants and education support staff across England and South Wales, helping them find rewarding opportunities in mainstream schools, specialist settings and alternative provisions.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;If you're already registered with Axcis, &lt;span class="red_color"&gt;&lt;a rel="noopener" href="/jobs/" target="_blank"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;explore our latest SEND vacancies&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt; to find your next opportunity.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;If you're new to Axcis, &lt;span class="red_color"&gt;&lt;a rel="noopener" href="https://forms.axcis.co.uk/team/candidates/enquiry-form-candidate" target="_blank"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;complete our Candidate Enquiry Form&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt; and one of our consultants will be in touch to discuss your experience, career goals and current opportunities in your area.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Whether you're looking for day-to-day supply, long-term placements or permanent roles, we're here to help you build a rewarding career supporting children and young people with SEND.&lt;/p&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 15:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <a10:updated>2026-07-08T15:00:00+01:00</a10:updated>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">4549</guid>
      <link>http://nz.axcis.co.uk/blog/articles/2026/04/17/nasen-awards-send-excellence-axcis/</link>
      <category>candidates</category>
      <category>clients</category>
      <category>Charitable Partners</category>
      <title>The nasen Awards: Celebrating Excellence in Inclusive Education</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font22px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;The nasen Awards: Celebrating Excellence in Inclusive Education&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Across the UK, thousands of education professionals work tirelessly to create inclusive learning environments where every child and young person has the opportunity to thrive.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The &lt;strong&gt;&lt;a rel="noopener" href="https://nasen.org.uk/" target="_blank"&gt;nasen&lt;/a&gt; Awards &lt;/strong&gt;recognise these achievements by celebrating the schools, educators, teams and organisations making an outstanding contribution to inclusive education and SEND.&lt;span class="PDq2pG_selectionAnchor" aria-hidden="true"&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;As a long-standing &lt;a rel="noopener" href="/about-us/charitable-partnerships/" target="_blank"&gt;corporate partner of &lt;strong&gt;nasen&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/a&gt;, Axcis is proud to support these awards and help shine a light on the incredible work taking place across the education sector.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Why the nasen Awards matter&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Creating genuinely inclusive education takes commitment, collaboration and innovation.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The nasen Awards recognise those who consistently go above and beyond to improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND while inspiring others across the sector.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The awards celebrate:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Outstanding inclusive practice&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Innovative approaches to supporting learners&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Collaboration between schools, families and professionals&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Positive outcomes for children and young people&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Excellence across a wide range of SEND categories&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;For many nominees, recognition isn't simply about winning an award; it's about celebrating the dedication of entire school communities.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Proud sponsors of Primary Provision of the Year&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Axcis is proud to sponsor the &lt;a rel="noopener" href="https://nasen.org.uk/page/nasen-awards-categories" target="_blank"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Primary Provision of the Year&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/a&gt; category.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;This award recognises primary settings that embed inclusion into everyday practice, creating supportive learning environments where every pupil feels valued and has the opportunity to succeed.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Schools considered for this award demonstrate:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;A whole-school commitment to inclusive practice&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;High-quality support for pupils with additional needs&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Positive outcomes for children and young people&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Strong partnerships with families and professionals&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;These are values that closely reflect our own commitment to supporting inclusive education throughout the UK.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;img style="width: 396px; height: 302px;" src="http://nz.axcis.co.uk/media/rkkjshyv/2025-axcis-nasen-winner.png?width=396&amp;amp;height=302&amp;amp;mode=max" alt="2025 Primary Provision of the Year winners with Louise Linehan from Axcis"&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;2025 Primary Provision of the Year winners with Louise Linehan, Axcis.&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Our partnership with nasen&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Our relationship with nasen extends far beyond the awards themselves.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;As a long-standing &lt;a rel="noopener" href="/about-us/charitable-partnerships/" target="_blank"&gt;corporate partner&lt;/a&gt;, Axcis works alongside nasen to support initiatives that promote inclusive education, professional development and better outcomes for children and young people with SEND.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Together, we share a commitment to recognising excellent practice and supporting the education professionals who make inclusion happen every day.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Celebrating excellence every year&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Each year, the nasen Awards provide an opportunity to celebrate inspiring schools, educators and teams from across the UK.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Whether it's recognising innovative teaching, exceptional leadership or outstanding inclusive provision, the awards remind us of the positive impact education professionals make every single day.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;We'll continue to celebrate each year's finalists and winners while supporting the ongoing work of nasen to champion inclusion across education.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Passionate about inclusive education?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;If you're looking for your next role in SEND or mainstream education, or your school is looking to strengthen its inclusive workforce, Axcis is here to help.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;As a specialist &lt;strong&gt;teaching agency&lt;/strong&gt;, we work with schools, colleges and alternative provisions across England and South Wales, connecting education professionals with rewarding opportunities that make a real difference.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Whether you're searching for your next role or looking to recruit exceptional staff, we'd love to hear from you.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;a rel="noopener" href="https://forms.axcis.co.uk/team/axcis/enquiry-form" target="_blank"&gt;Enquire Here&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 15:53:50 +0100</pubDate>
      <a10:updated>2026-04-17T15:53:50+01:00</a10:updated>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">4539</guid>
      <link>http://nz.axcis.co.uk/blog/articles/2026/02/09/what-does-emotional-support-look-like-in-a-send-classroom/</link>
      <category>candidates</category>
      <title>What Does Emotional Support Look Like in a SEND Classroom?</title>
      <description>&lt;h1 style="color: #e5004f !important; font-size: 22pt !important; font-weight: 600 !important; line-height: 1.25 !important; margin: 0px 0px 16px !important; text-transform: none !important; letter-spacing: normal !important; text-align: left;"&gt;What Does Emotional Support Look Like in a SEND Classroom Day to Day?&lt;/h1&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Emotional support is often described as a core part of SEND education, but it isn’t always obvious what that looks like in practice.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;In SEND classrooms, emotional support doesn’t usually come from planned interventions or formal moments set aside in the timetable. More often, it is built into the rhythm of the day through routines, relationships, communication, and the way adults respond to pupils moment by moment.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;For SEND teaching and education support staff, emotional support shows up in everyday decisions: how transitions are handled, how expectations are communicated, how pupils are supported when learning feels difficult, and how adults remain calm and consistent when emotions run high.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;This blog explores what emotional support looks like in a SEND classroom on a day-to-day basis, focusing on the small, practical actions that help pupils feel safe, supported, and ready to engage with learning.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="color: #e5004f !important; font-size: 18pt !important; font-weight: 700 !important; line-height: 1.25 !important; margin: 32px 0 12px 0 !important; text-transform: none !important; letter-spacing: normal !important;"&gt;Emotional Support Is Built Into the Everyday&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;In SEND classrooms, emotional support isn’t something that only appears when a pupil is visibly distressed. It is part of the everyday structure of the classroom.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;This may include:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;predictable routines that help pupils feel secure&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;calm, consistent adult responses&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;clear communication around expectations and transitions&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;classroom environments that reduce unnecessary stress&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;For experienced staff, these practices are often second nature. For those newer to SEND roles, recognising that emotional support is already happening, even through simple, routine actions, can be reassuring.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="color: #e5004f !important; font-size: 18pt !important; font-weight: 700 !important; line-height: 1.25 !important; margin: 32px 0 12px 0 !important; text-transform: none !important; letter-spacing: normal !important;"&gt;Relationships Are Central to Emotional Support&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;One of the most important foundations of emotional support in SEND classrooms is &lt;strong&gt;relationships&lt;/strong&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Pupils are more likely to regulate, communicate, and engage when they trust the adults supporting them. That trust is built gradually through:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;consistency and reliability&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;following through on what is said&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;responding calmly during challenging moments&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;taking time to listen, even when there isn’t an immediate solution&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Emotional support does not depend on having the “perfect” response. Often, it is about being predictable, present, and attuned to individual pupils.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="color: #e5004f !important; font-size: 18pt !important; font-weight: 700 !important; line-height: 1.25 !important; margin: 32px 0 12px 0 !important; text-transform: none !important; letter-spacing: normal !important;"&gt;Supporting Emotional Regulation Throughout the Day&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Emotional regulation support in SEND settings often happens quietly and continuously, rather than during isolated incidents.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Day-to-day examples may include:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;noticing early signs of dysregulation&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;adjusting demands when pupils feel overwhelmed&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;offering movement breaks or quiet spaces&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;using familiar language or cues to support transitions&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;For newer staff, this can feel like a lot to hold in mind. Over time, patterns become easier to recognise, and responses feel more natural. For experienced staff, regulation support often becomes embedded in practice, but it still relies on observation and reflection.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="color: #e5004f !important; font-size: 18pt !important; font-weight: 700 !important; line-height: 1.25 !important; margin: 32px 0 12px 0 !important; text-transform: none !important; letter-spacing: normal !important;"&gt;Where SEMH Fits Into Emotional Support&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;In many SEND classrooms, emotional support is closely connected to social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, whether or not pupils are formally identified as SEMH.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;In practice, this often involves supporting pupils to:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;recognise and communicate emotions&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;build trust and secure relationships&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;develop regulation strategies over time&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;feel safe enough to access learning&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;SEMH support in SEND classrooms is rarely separate from the rest of the school day. It is shaped through relationships, routines, language, and consistent adult responses rather than standalone interventions.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;For experienced staff, this understanding often develops through practice. For those newer to SEND roles, recognising that SEMH support is embedded within everyday classroom life rather than something additional or specialist can help reduce pressure and unrealistic expectations.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="color: #e5004f !important; font-size: 18pt !important; font-weight: 700 !important; line-height: 1.25 !important; margin: 32px 0 12px 0 !important; text-transform: none !important; letter-spacing: normal !important;"&gt;Emotional Support Is Not the Same as Therapy&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;A common concern, particularly for teaching assistants and staff new to SEND roles, is the fear of overstepping professional boundaries.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Providing emotional support in a SEND classroom does &lt;strong&gt;not&lt;/strong&gt; mean acting as a therapist or counsellor. It means:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;creating conditions where pupils feel safe&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;responding with empathy and professionalism&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;observing and sharing concerns appropriately&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;working within the wider school team&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Clear boundaries protect both pupils and staff. Emotional support works best when it is part of a collaborative approach led by teachers, SENDCos, inclusion leads, and pastoral systems.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="color: #e5004f !important; font-size: 18pt !important; font-weight: 700 !important; line-height: 1.25 !important; margin: 32px 0 12px 0 !important; text-transform: none !important; letter-spacing: normal !important;"&gt;When Emotional Support Looks Different From One Day to the Next&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;SEND classrooms are dynamic environments. What supports a pupil well one day may need adjusting the next, and that is normal.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Changes in routine, staffing, environment, or pupils’ personal circumstances can all influence emotional wellbeing. Experienced staff often notice this quickly, while newer staff may take time to identify patterns.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;What matters most is not getting it “right” every time, but remaining:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;observant&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;flexible&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;open to adapting approaches&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Emotional support in SEND education is responsive, not rigid.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="color: #e5004f !important; font-size: 18pt !important; font-weight: 700 !important; line-height: 1.25 !important; margin: 32px 0 12px 0 !important; text-transform: none !important; letter-spacing: normal !important;"&gt;Learning From Colleagues and SEND Teams&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;No one delivers emotional support in SEND classrooms alone.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Support and perspective often come from:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;colleagues and fellow support staff&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;class teachers and wider teams&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;SENDCos and inclusion leads&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;established school systems for reflection and communication&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Open conversations, peer networking, shared problem-solving, and learning from others’ experiences play an important role in navigating SEND roles and strengthening practice over time.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="color: #e5004f !important; font-size: 18pt !important; font-weight: 700 !important; line-height: 1.25 !important; margin: 32px 0 12px 0 !important; text-transform: none !important; letter-spacing: normal !important;"&gt;The Role of CPD in Supporting Emotional and SEMH Practice&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Ongoing continuing professional development (CPD) plays an important role in supporting emotional wellbeing and SEMH practice in SEND settings.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Engaging with training and reflective learning can help staff:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;deepen understanding of emotional regulation and behaviour&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;feel more confident in their responses&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;adapt practice as pupils’ needs change&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;stay informed about SEND-appropriate approaches&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;For SEND professionals working with Axcis, access to the &lt;a rel="noopener" href="/candidates/cpd-training-and-career-development/" target="_blank"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Axcis Academy&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/a&gt; provides CPD opportunities designed to support learning across a range of SEND and SEMH contexts, complementing the guidance and systems already in place within schools.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Emotional support in SEND classrooms is rarely about grand interventions. More often, it is found in the small, consistent actions that help pupils feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;For experienced staff, this becomes part of everyday practice. For those newer to SEND roles, it develops over time through observation, collaboration, reflection, and continued learning.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;In SEND education, emotional support may not always be visible or easily measured, but it plays a vital role in creating environments where pupils and the staff supporting them can thrive.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;If you are reflecting on your practice or looking to develop your skills further, continued learning and SEND-focused CPD can support your development alongside the guidance provided within your school or setting.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;h2 style="color: #e5004f !important; font-size: 18pt !important; font-weight: 700 !important; line-height: 1.25 !important; margin: 32px 0 12px 0 !important; text-transform: none !important; letter-spacing: normal !important;"&gt;Considering Your Next Step in SEND Education?&lt;/h2&gt;
&lt;p&gt;If you’re still exploring your next SEND role or thinking about a change, having the right support around you can make the process feel more manageable.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Axcis works exclusively within SEND education, supporting teaching and education support staff across a wide range of settings. Whether you’re actively looking for a role or simply want to understand what opportunities are available in your area, our teams can help provide clarity around different SEND environments and expectations.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;You’re welcome to contact your local Axcis team or submit an enquiry to start a conversation with no pressure or obligation to move roles before you’re ready.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;👉 &lt;strong&gt;Get in touch with Axcis &lt;a rel="noopener" href="https://forms.axcis.co.uk/team/axcis/enquiry-form" target="_blank"&gt;here&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 11:15:34 Z</pubDate>
      <a10:updated>2026-02-09T11:15:34Z</a10:updated>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">4532</guid>
      <link>http://nz.axcis.co.uk/blog/articles/2026/01/16/meet-the-axcis-team-hr1/</link>
      <category>schools</category>
      <category>clients</category>
      <category>candidates</category>
      <category>recruitment</category>
      <title>Meet the Axcis Team - HR</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font22px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Behind the Scenes at Axcis: Meet Our HR and Training Director&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;At Axcis, we know that delivering high-quality SEND staffing support to schools starts behind the scenes. That’s why we’re pulling back the curtain with a new series that introduces some of the senior leaders shaping how we support our staff, consultants, and most importantly, your school.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Our clients often ask us how we maintain such a high level of consultancy quality and consistency. The answer? It starts with leadership, training, and HR processes that underpin every school placement we make, ensuring that the right people are supported to deliver the right outcomes for your setting.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;In this Q&amp;amp;A, we speak with &lt;strong&gt;Sara Wills, our HR and Training Director&lt;/strong&gt;, about her Axcis journey, the values driving her leadership, and the internal strategies that help us deliver on our promise to schools.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt; &lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;1. Tell us a little about your journey at Axcis – how did you get started, and what brought you into the world of SEND recruitment?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt; &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;I had been in recruitment for 14 years before joining Axcis, so I was already familiar with the company through my work with schools. I joined in 2010 as a Senior Recruitment Consultant and immediately liked the way the consultants supported each other. It felt very different from what I was used to.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;I quickly found myself learning new terminology and stepping into a world where what we do genuinely matters. The idea that a child could benefit from the right candidate placement really resonated with me. Visiting schools gave me a much better understanding of their needs and introduced me to tools like Makaton and PECS; things I’d never encountered before in recruitment.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;On a personal note, I have friends who are parents of children with SEND, and I’ve seen their struggles. It’s so important that children with SEND are given the same opportunities as anyone else to succeed in life.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt; &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;2. What does your role as HR and Training Director involve, and how does it help ensure schools receive high-quality service from Axcis?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt; &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;My role covers two main areas: HR and training. On the HR side, I oversee internal staff processes, policies, and procedures. On the training side, I support both new and existing team members to help them thrive within those processes.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;I’m deeply passionate about customer service, and I believe that if our consultants are well-trained and confident in their roles, they’re more capable of supporting the needs of our schools. Our training ensures that consultants really listen to their clients and work collaboratively with them to find effective, long-term solutions.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt; &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;3. What do you believe makes Axcis different from other SEND recruitment agencies?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;I’ve asked clients this question many times, and the feedback is almost always the same: Axcis stands out because of the quality of our candidates and the commitment of our internal staff to get it right.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Our consultants have a deep understanding of SEND and know exactly what to look for in potential staff. Every Axcis branch has ex-educational professionals on hand to provide insight, which strengthens our service even more. Many of our school partners have worked with us for years because they trust our values, our experience, and our commitment to delivering high-quality, specialist support.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt; &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;4. How does Axcis support its consultants to ensure they give their best to schools, pupils, and candidates?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt; &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Axcis provides a robust training programme for both new and existing staff. This includes everything from understanding systems and policies to in-depth training on compliance and SEND.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;We bring in internal and external trainers depending on the content, and we actively encourage the sharing of best practices across the company. In addition, our candidates have access to a wide range of CPD training opportunities to help support their own professional development.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;5. Where do you see the biggest opportunities or challenges for SEND recruitment in 2026 and beyond?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt; &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The growing awareness of SEND both in schools and in wider society is hugely positive. I’ve seen a lot of changes since I started in recruitment, and while we’ve come a long way, there’s still more to do.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;We need to stay focused on continuous improvement so that we can keep driving better outcomes for children and young people with SEND.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt; &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt; &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;6. Tell us something that people might not know about you?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt; &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;I love singing out loud even though I’m completely out of tune! But don’t worry, I only do it at home!&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;What to Expect From Axcis &lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;We’ll be continuing this series in future newsletters and blogs, featuring more members of the Axcis senior leadership team. It’s all part of our commitment to transparency, integrity, and continuous improvement because we know that the right people behind the scenes make all the difference in the classroom.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Interested in working with Axcis?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Whether you’re a school or alternative provision in need of specialist staffing or an education professional looking for a new opportunity, we’d love to hear from you.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;👉 &lt;span&gt;&lt;a rel="noopener" href="https://forms.axcis.co.uk/243244559942060" target="_blank"&gt;Fill in this form&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt; or reach out to your Axcis consultant&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Disclaimer:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;em&gt;The information contained in this blog is intended for general interest and background only. Any opinions expressed reflect the views of the contributor at the time of publishing and may not represent the views of Axcis Education Recruitment or its partner organisations. Please note that staff roles, locations and responsibilities may evolve over time.&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 09:03:05 Z</pubDate>
      <a10:updated>2026-01-16T09:03:05Z</a10:updated>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">4522</guid>
      <link>http://nz.axcis.co.uk/blog/articles/2025/11/06/ace-your-send-education-job-interview/</link>
      <category>candidates</category>
      <category>Axcis Contractor Resources</category>
      <title>Ace Your SEND Education Job Interview</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="font22px red_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;The 20-Word Introduction That Gets You the Job: How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” in SEND Interviews&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Why First Impressions Matter&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Your interview begins long before you finish your first answer. The question “&lt;em&gt;Tell me about yourself&lt;/em&gt;” is asked in almost every SEND interview, and many educators lose the interview panel’s attention within 30 seconds.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Why? Because they talk about themselves instead of what matters most: &lt;strong&gt;the pupils&lt;/strong&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="font18px red_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;The Mistake Most Education Professionals Make&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Interview panels often hear the same introduction again and again:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Qualifications and training dates&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Years of experience in order&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Job titles and school names&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Generic statements like “&lt;em&gt;I enjoy working with children&lt;/em&gt;”&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The issue? Your CV already tells that story. What interviewers are really asking is: “&lt;strong&gt;Why should we choose you for our pupils?&lt;/strong&gt;”&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;A Story: TA Sarah’s Turning Point&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Sarah, a Teaching Assistant, once began her answer with training dates and school names. She noticed the panel switch off.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;At her next interview, she tried a new approach:&lt;br /&gt;“&lt;strong&gt;I help non-verbal pupils find their voice and join in with their classmates.&lt;/strong&gt;”&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Twelve words. The panel leaned forward. “&lt;em&gt;That’s exactly what we need, tell me more.&lt;/em&gt;”&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;This time, she got the job.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="font18px red_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;The 20-Word Interview Rule&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Your introduction should be:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Under 20 words&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Focused on pupil outcomes&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Specific enough to be memorable&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Template:&lt;/strong&gt; “I help [&lt;em&gt;type of pupils&lt;/em&gt;] to [&lt;em&gt;key outcome&lt;/em&gt;] and [&lt;em&gt;key outcom&lt;/em&gt;e].”&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;SEND Interview Examples That May Work Instead&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;❌ “I’ve worked with SEMH pupils in primary and secondary schools.”&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;✅ “I help pupils with anxiety and trauma to trust adults, manage emotions and succeed.”&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;❌ “I’m trained in Makaton and PECS.”&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;✅ “I give non-verbal pupils tools to communicate, make choices and build friendships.”&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;❌ “I support pupils with sensory processing difficulties.”&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;✅ “I help pupils with sensory needs feel regulated, focused and ready to learn.”&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Why It Works&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;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.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Make Your First Interview Impression Count&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;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.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Download the Free Cheat Sheet&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Want to keep these examples handy?&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;👉 Download our one-page &lt;a href="http://nz.axcis.co.uk/blog/media/2iyjsncb/ace-your-send-education-job-interview.pdf"&gt;Interview Cheat Sheet&lt;/a&gt; for a quick reference to the 20-word rule, sample answers, and a simple action plan.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;More Resources for Your SEND Journey&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;📝 &lt;a rel="noopener" href="/blog/articles/2024/07/15/mastering-your-cv-the-ultimate-guide-to-landing-your-dream-job/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" data-anchor="?utm_source=chatgpt.com"&gt;Mastering Your CV: The Ultimate Guide to Landing Your Dream Job&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;❓ &lt;a rel="noopener" href="/blog/articles/2022/11/09/top-5-interview-questions-for-teachers/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" data-anchor="?utm_source=chatgpt.com"&gt;Top 5 Interview Questions for Teachers&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;🎒 &lt;a rel="noopener" href="/blog/articles/2025/07/08/how-to-prepare-for-your-first-day-in-a-send-setting/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" data-anchor="?utm_source=chatgpt.com"&gt;How to Prepare for Your First Day in a SEND Setting&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="font18px red_color"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Looking for Your Next SEND Role?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;At Axcis, we specialise in SEND recruitment across England and South Wales. By registering with us, you’ll get:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Free CPD training with access to 1,400+ webinars and 180+ online courses through the &lt;a rel="noopener" href="/candidates/cpd-training-and-career-development/the-axcis-academy/" target="_blank"&gt;Axcis Academy&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Exclusive &lt;a rel="noopener" href="/candidates/" target="_blank"&gt;SEND opportunities&lt;/a&gt; in schools nationwide&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;The &lt;a rel="noopener" href="/blog/articles/2025/07/08/how-to-prepare-for-your-first-day-in-a-send-setting/" target="_blank"&gt;Axcis App&lt;/a&gt; to manage your work and admin quickly and easily&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Ongoing support from consultants who understand SEND&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="noopener" href="https://forms.axcis.co.uk/team/candidates/enquiry-form-candidate" target="_blank"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Register with Axcis&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/a&gt; today and let us help you find your ideal role.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 06 Nov 2025 06:01:54 Z</pubDate>
      <a10:updated>2025-11-06T06:01:54Z</a10:updated>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">3495</guid>
      <link>http://nz.axcis.co.uk/blog/articles/2025/07/08/how-to-prepare-for-your-first-day-in-a-send-setting/</link>
      <category>candidates</category>
      <category>how to</category>
      <category>Axcis Contractor Resources</category>
      <category>Job seeking resources</category>
      <title>How to Prepare for Your First Day in a SEND Setting</title>
      <description>&lt;p&gt;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.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Here’s how to set yourself up for success on day one:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;1. Confirm the Details&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Save your Axcis consultant’s contact details&lt;/strong&gt; 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.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Check the Axcis App&lt;/strong&gt; beforehand for booking details, including the school’s name, contact person, address, and map link.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;        Don’t have the Axcis App yet? Download it now on &lt;a rel="noopener" href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.axcis_mobile_application" target="_blank" data-anchor="?id=com.axcis_mobile_application"&gt;Google Play&lt;/a&gt; or the &lt;a rel="noopener" href="https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/axcis-education/id1554835434" target="_blank"&gt;Apple Store&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Plan your journey in advance:&lt;/strong&gt; Check bus/train timetables or parking options and give yourself extra time for delays.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Understand school-specific policies:&lt;/strong&gt; Every school is different, so make a note to gather all relevant information from the contact person on arrival.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;        Examples include:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;        · The school’s Safeguarding and Behavioural Policies&lt;br /&gt;        · EHCP plans for each student that you’ll be supporting&lt;br /&gt;        · Ask if there is any information you need to know about the setting or students.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Dress code:&lt;/strong&gt; 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).&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;2. Pack the Essentials&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Here’s a quick checklist of what to bring:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Notepad, pens, and any stationery you may need for the day&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Your photo ID and your DBS certificate&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;A packed lunch, snacks, and a refillable water bottle&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;3. Observe, Listen, and Adapt&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;No two SEND settings are alike. Take time to:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Observe how staff interact with students&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Learn the school’s routines and expectations&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Identify communication strategies in use (e.g. visuals, Makaton, BSL)&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;🙋 Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Showing a willingness to learn is always appreciated.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;4. Stay Calm and Be Flexible&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;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.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="red_color font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;5. Reflect and Check In&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;At the end of the day, take a moment to reflect:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;What went well?&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;What did you learn?&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Is there anything you’d like more support with?&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Your Axcis consultant is always happy to hear how it went and guide you if needed.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;span class="font18px"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Bonus Tip: Keep Growing&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Want to boost your confidence even further? Registered Axcis candidates get free access to Axcis Academy, our &lt;a href="/candidates/cpd-training-and-career-development/the-axcis-academy/"&gt;CPD platform&lt;/a&gt; powered by The National College, with over 1,400 webinars and 180+ courses tailored to SEND professionals.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;👉 &lt;a href="/candidates/cpd-training-and-career-development/the-axcis-academy/"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Click here&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/a&gt; to explore Axcis Academy&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Still Looking for Your Next Role?&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;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.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;👉 &lt;a rel="noopener" href="/register/" target="_blank"&gt;Register with Axcis today&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Remember, &lt;strong&gt;your presence makes a difference&lt;/strong&gt;. 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!&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;</description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 08 Jul 2025 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <a10:updated>2025-07-08T12:00:00+01:00</a10:updated>
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