At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with SEMH needs through 1-1 and small group sessions.
- Company: Join a dedicated Pupil Referral Unit in Blackburn.
- Benefits: Starting pay from £14 per hour, with potential for permanent role.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people with SEMH needs.
- Qualifications: 6 months experience or relevant qualification in education or psychology.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to build positive relationships.
The predicted salary is between 28 - 32 £ per hour.
We are delighted to be working with a Pupil Referral Unit in Blackburn, seeking an experienced Teaching Assistant to support pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and challenging behaviours. This is a full‑time position, Monday to Friday 8.30–3.30, initially until Easter 2026, with potential for a permanent role for the right candidate.
Key Responsibilities
- Supporting pupils with SEMH needs through 1‑1 and small group sessions.
- Using de‑escalation techniques and behaviour management strategies.
- Assisting with learning activities for students below age‑related expectations.
- Encouraging participation in extra‑curricular activities to foster engagement.
Qualifications & Desired Experience
- A minimum of 6 months professional or personal experience in a relevant field, or a certified qualification in an area such as education, psychology, drama, etc.
- A can‑do attitude and desire to make a difference with the children they support.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- An enhanced DBS check (we can guide you through this process if you do not already have one).
- Experience working with young people who have SEMH needs is desirable but not essential.
- It is important that you are consistent, reliable and proactive and adept at building positive relationships.
Benefits
Pay starts from £14 per hour, dependent on your skills and experience.
How to Apply
If you are interested, click the apply button and contact John Boddington on 01772 540 740 | Ext: 3005. If you are not interested but know someone else who might be, don’t forget that we offer £50 in shopping vouchers if you refer a friend to us and we place them in the job. For more details, contact your local Axcis office. This position is temporary unless stated otherwise.
Legal & Equality Statements
Axcis is an equal opportunities employer and does not discriminate based on age, gender, disability, race or any other equal opportunities criteria. The company is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. As such, all staff are required to provide an up‑to‑date DBS or allow Axcis to process one on your behalf, together with other mandatory compliance checks in line with the DfE guidelines. If the position involves working with children or vulnerable adults, this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974.
Agency Information
Axcis Education is an employment agency offering temporary supply work for daily, short‑term and long‑term assignments in addition to permanent positions. You must be suitably qualified for the advertised position and be prepared to attend a face‑to‑face interview with Axcis to demonstrate your suitability.
Contact Details
Contact: John Boddington Telephone: 01772 540 740 | Ext: 3005
Teaching Assistant - behaviour in Blackburn employer: Axcis Education Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Axcis Education Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant - behaviour in Blackburn
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values before your interview. Research the Pupil Referral Unit in Blackburn and understand their approach to SEMH support. This will help us tailor our answers and show that we’re genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your de-escalation techniques and behaviour management strategies. We want to demonstrate our skills in real-life scenarios during the interview, so think of examples from past experiences where we've successfully supported students with challenging behaviours.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss how we can encourage participation in extra-curricular activities. Think about creative ways to engage pupils and foster a positive learning environment. This shows that we’re proactive and committed to their overall development.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, if you know someone else who might be a good fit, refer them to us for a chance to earn some shopping vouchers!
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant - behaviour in Blackburn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting pupils with SEMH needs shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have, whether it's professional or personal. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on those details!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit for the Teaching Assistant position.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Axcis Education Recruitment
✨Know Your SEMH Stuff
Make sure you brush up on Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs before the interview. Understand common challenges these pupils face and be ready to discuss how you can support them effectively. This shows your commitment and knowledge in the field.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Whether it's professional or personal, be prepared to share specific examples of your experience working with young people, especially those with challenging behaviours. Highlight any de-escalation techniques or behaviour management strategies you've successfully used in the past.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since this role involves working closely with teachers and other staff, be ready to talk about your teamwork skills. Share instances where you've collaborated effectively to support students, and emphasise your ability to build positive relationships with both colleagues and pupils.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the school's approach to SEMH support or how they encourage participation in extra-curricular activities. It shows you're genuinely interested in the role and the school’s mission.