At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with SEMH needs and manage challenging behaviour in a classroom setting.
- Company: Specialist SEN school in Croydon dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, full-time hours, and the chance to impact young lives.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and make a real difference in your community.
- Why this job: Be a positive role model and help vulnerable young people re-engage with education.
- Qualifications: Experience in mentoring, youth work, or supporting children with challenging behaviour.
The predicted salary is between 24750 - 27375 £ per year.
Location: Croydon – Start Date: September 2026 – Full‑Time Monday – Friday – All‑age setting: supporting children aged 4‑16 years – Pay rate: £95–105 per day
Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of young people who need it most in Croydon? We are an SEMH/EBD specialist SEN school seeking resilient, empathetic, and committed individuals to join our team. This role is ideal for people who understand the realities many of our students face and can build strong, trusting relationships that support positive change.
Experience:
- Mentoring or youth work
- Counselling or therapeutic support
- Supporting children with challenging behaviour
- Working with Looked‑After Children (LAC)
- Supporting young people vulnerable to gang involvement or exploitation
- Working with children affected by drug‑related environments or poverty
- Trauma‑informed practice and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)
- Behaviour support or intervention roles
- Community outreach or support intervention programmes
- Sports coaching or activity‑based youth engagement
This role suits individuals who bring real‑world understanding, patience, and consistency. Many of our students in Croydon have experienced disruption, instability, or trauma, and need adults who can provide structure, boundaries, and genuine care.
What we're looking for:
- Strong relationship‑building skills
- Calm, confident approach to behaviour management
- Ability to engage and motivate hard‑to‑reach young people
- A team player with a proactive mindset
- Urban‑minded individuals who can relate to the backgrounds of our students
What you'll be doing:
- Supporting students with SEMH needs in and out of the classroom
- Managing and de‑escalating challenging behaviour
- Acting as a positive role model and mentor
- Delivering targeted interventions and support strategies
- Working closely with teaching staff and external professionals
This is more than a job – it's an opportunity to positively impact lives and help young people in Croydon re‑engage with education and their futures. If you have the experience, resilience, and drive to support vulnerable young people in an urban SEMH setting in Croydon, we want to hear from you.
SEMH Teaching Assistant - Behaviour Support Mentor (Croydon) employer: Academics
Join our dedicated team in Croydon, where we prioritise the well-being and development of young people with SEMH needs. We offer a supportive work culture that values resilience and empathy, alongside opportunities for professional growth through training and mentorship. As an SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will not only make a meaningful impact on students' lives but also be part of a community committed to fostering positive change in the local area.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEMH Teaching Assistant - Behaviour Support Mentor (Croydon)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values before your interview. Research their approach to SEMH support and think about how your experiences align with their mission. This will help you show that you're not just a good fit, but the perfect match for their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your relationship-building skills! Think of examples from your past where you've successfully connected with young people, especially those facing challenges. Be ready to share these stories during your interview to demonstrate your ability to engage and motivate.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your calm and confident approach to behaviour management. Prepare to discuss specific strategies you've used in the past to de-escalate challenging situations. This will highlight your practical experience and reassure them that you can handle the demands of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and making a difference in Croydon.
We think you need these skills to ace SEMH Teaching Assistant - Behaviour Support Mentor (Croydon)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting young people shine through. Share personal experiences or motivations that drive you to make a difference in the lives of those with SEMH needs.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experience, especially in mentoring, behaviour support, or working with vulnerable groups. We want to see how your background aligns with the role!
Be Authentic:Don’t be afraid to be yourself! Authenticity is key when applying for a role that requires strong relationship-building skills. Share your unique approach to engaging with young people and how you can relate to their backgrounds.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Academics
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a SEMH Teaching Assistant and the specific challenges faced by students in Croydon. Familiarise yourself with trauma-informed practices and how to support young people with SEMH needs. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the position.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experiences related to mentoring, youth work, or any relevant roles. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to build relationships and manage challenging behaviour. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the role effectively.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Resilience
During the interview, convey your understanding of the realities faced by vulnerable young people. Share stories that illustrate your patience and commitment to making a difference. Employers want to see that you can connect with students on a personal level and provide the support they need.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the school’s approach to behaviour management and support strategies. This shows that you’re not only interested in the job but also invested in the well-being of the students. It’s a great way to engage with the interviewers and leave a lasting impression.
