About the role:
EdStaff are currently recruiting for dedicated and compassionate SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) Teaching Assistants to support pupils within specialist school settings.
This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who is passionate about supporting children and young people who may face social, emotional and behavioural challenges. You will play an important role in helping pupils overcome barriers to learning, develop confidence and reach their full potential.
Working closely with teaching staff and other professionals, you will provide tailored support to students, helping to create a safe, supportive and positive learning environment where every pupil feels valued.
Key responsibilities:
- Provide one-to-one and small group support to pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs.
- Build positive, trusting relationships with students, acting as a consistent and supportive role model.
- Support pupils in managing their emotions, developing coping strategies and regulating their behaviour.
- Implement behaviour management strategies and follow individual support plans.
- Encourage positive behaviour, engagement and participation in classroom activities.
- Help create a safe, calm and inclusive learning environment.
- Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs and other support staff to meet individual pupil needs.
- Promote pupils’ social skills, independence, confidence and personal development.
- Maintain a patient, understanding and consistent approach when dealing with challenging situations
Person specification:
- Patient, empathetic and understanding, with the ability to recognise and respond to the individual needs of pupils with SEMH difficulties.
- Confident in building positive, trusting relationships with children and young people who may have experienced trauma or challenging life experiences.
- Calm, resilient and able to remain positive and consistent when managing challenging behaviour or emotionally heightened situations.
- Understanding of behaviour as a form of communication and able to respond with empathy rather than judgement.
- Able to set clear boundaries, maintain consistency and use positive behaviour management strategies.
- Flexible and adaptable, with the ability to respond to changing situations and individual pupil needs.
- A good team player who can work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs and other professionals to support pupil development.
- Passionate about supporting vulnerable young people, promoting inclusion and helping pupils overcome barriers to learning.
Essential requirements:
- Right to work in the UK.
- Experience working within a UK school setting or with children/young people in a similar environment.
- Enhanced DBS on the update service or willing to obtain one.
- Able to provide reference details to cover the last 2-year period.
- Experience supporting pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs.
Why join EdStaff:
- A dedicated consultant to support you throughout your job search
- Weekly pay via PAYE
- Free online CPD accredited learning opportunities
- Local roles—we find schools that suit your needs and location
- The opportunity to build strong relationships with local schools – potential for long-term and permanent positions
- Competitive pay rates
- Refer-a-friend scheme
Edstaff are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff to share this commitment.
SEMH Teaching Assistant in St. Helens employer: EdStaff Careers
EdStaff is an excellent employer for teaching assistants seeking a fulfilling role in a supportive and nurturing environment. With a commitment to professional development through free online training and a dedicated consultant to guide your job search, you will have the opportunity to work across various educational settings while building meaningful relationships with local schools. Join us to make a real difference in the lives of young learners in Whiston and beyond.
