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- Tasks: Support students with SEMH needs in a nurturing environment, focusing on personal development.
- Company: Join a dedicated SEN school in Southampton known for its strong ethos of care and respect.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive daily rates, professional development opportunities, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a collaborative and encouraging setting.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths are required; experience with SEMH is a plus.
- Other info: Full-time role starting September 2025, with potential for permanent placement.
The predicted salary is between 17040 - 19080 £ per year.
SEMH Teaching Assistant – Secondary SEN School – Southampton (Totton Area) – September Start
Apply fast, check the full description by scrolling below to find out the full requirements for this role.
Location: Southampton (near Totton)
Start Date: September 2025
Contract Type: Full-Time, Long-Term (potential for permanent placement)
Salary: £82 – £95 per day (dependent on experience)
A specialist secondary school near Totton, Southampton is seeking a dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistant to join their team this September. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a nurturing and supportive environment, helping students with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs to engage with learning and achieve their potential.
Working closely with students on a 1:1 basis and in small groups, you\’ll play a vital role in providing emotional and academic support, helping young people overcome barriers to learning and build positive relationships.
Your Role Will Involve:
Supporting students with SEMH needs both 1:1 and in small group settings
Assisting teaching staff in delivering a personalised, engaging curriculum
Helping students with emotional regulation and behaviour management strategies
Building strong, trusting relationships to promote confidence and independence
Maintaining a calm, consistent, and encouraging presence throughout the day
Working closely with teachers, therapists, and support staff to ensure each student’s needs are met
What We’re Looking For:
Experience supporting young people with SEMH, SEN, or additional behavioural needs is highly desirable
A calm, patient and empathetic approach
Strong teamwork and communication skills
A genuine passion for supporting vulnerable young people
A proactive, positive attitude and the ability to remain resilient under pressure
About the School:
This is a well-regarded secondary special school with a strong focus on personalised learning, care, and development. With small class sizes and a dedicated team, the school provides a safe and structured environment for students to thrive socially, emotionally, and academically. Staff benefit from a collaborative ethos and regular professional development opportunities.
Requirements:
GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths
A current DBS on the update service, or willingness to apply for one
Relevant qualifications or training in SEN, youth work, or education are an advantage but not essential
Why Join Us?
Competitive daily pay and consistent, long-term work
Opportunity to make a real difference in students’ lives
Supportive and experienced leadership team
Ongoing CPD and training opportunities
If you’re passionate about supporting young people with SEMH needs and want to be part of a committed and caring school team, we’d love to hear from you.
To apply or find out more, contact us today or visit
Supply Desk is committed to safeguarding children and young people. All applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and thorough vetting in line with Safer Recruitment guidelines
SEMH Teaching Assistant employer: Supply Desk
Contact Detail:
Supply Desk Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEMH Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with SEMH needs and strategies to support students effectively. Understanding the specific challenges these young people face will help you demonstrate your commitment and readiness for the role during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those who work with SEMH students. Engaging with others in the field can provide valuable insights and may even lead to recommendations or referrals for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your approach to building relationships with students. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported young people, as this will showcase your ability to connect with and motivate them.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the school’s ethos and values. Being able to articulate how your personal philosophy aligns with their mission will show that you are not only a good fit for the role but also genuinely interested in contributing to their community.
We think you need these skills to ace SEMH Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience working with children or young people, especially those with SEMH needs. Emphasise your skills in communication, empathy, and teamwork.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the role of SEMH Teaching Assistant. Mention your passion for supporting students with emotional and mental health needs and how your approach aligns with the school's ethos.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have any qualifications or training related to education, SEN, or youth work, be sure to mention them. Even if they are not essential, they can strengthen your application.
Showcase Your Commitment: In your application, express your commitment to helping young people overcome barriers to learning. Share any personal experiences or insights that demonstrate your dedication to this cause.
How to prepare for a job interview at Supply Desk
✨Show Your Passion for SEMH
Make sure to express your genuine interest in working with students who have Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs. Share any personal experiences or motivations that led you to pursue this role, as it will demonstrate your commitment and understanding of the challenges these students face.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Discuss any previous experience you have working with children or young people, especially those with additional needs. Be specific about your roles and responsibilities, and how they relate to the position of a SEMH Teaching Assistant.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Patience
Prepare examples that showcase your calm and empathetic approach when dealing with challenging situations. The interviewers will be looking for evidence of your ability to maintain a supportive environment for students, so think of scenarios where you've successfully managed emotional or behavioural issues.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about the school's approach to supporting SEMH students. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to their mission effectively.
