At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide 1:1 support to learners with SEMH needs and help them thrive.
- Company: New Directions Education, dedicated to inclusive education and student support.
- Benefits: Make a real difference, gain valuable experience, and work in supportive environments.
- Other info: Join a team that values inclusion and personal growth.
- Why this job: Be the steady presence that helps young people navigate their school day.
- Qualifications: Patience, empathy, and an interest in trauma-informed practices.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Are you someone who enjoys building strong, meaningful relationships and being the steady, supportive presence a young person can rely on? Do you want a role where your patience, empathy, and understanding truly make a difference every single day? New Directions Education is looking for kind, committed, and resilient 1:1 Teaching Assistants to support learners with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs across a range of Pontefract‑based settings. This is a deeply rewarding role where you’ll work 1:1 with a learner, helping them feel safe, understood, and supported so they can engage more positively with school life.
What makes this role special? You’ll be that consistent adult who helps a young person navigate their school day — celebrating small wins, offering calm support during challenging moments, and helping them build confidence, trust, and emotional regulation skills. Every day will be different, but the impact you have will be lasting.
We’d love to hear from you if you:
- Are calm, patient, and compassionate, even when things feel challenging
- Have experience or an interest in trauma‑informed practice and therapeutic behaviour support
- Are Team‑Teach trained, or confident using positive behaviour management strategies
- Feel confident supporting emotional regulation and behaviour
- Truly believe in inclusion and giving every learner the chance to succeed
What your role will involve:
- Providing dedicated 1:1 support tailored to the individual needs of a learner
- Supporting emotional regulation and behaviour using positive, trauma‑informed approaches
- Helping the pupil engage with learning and access the curriculum
- Offering support during transitions, unstructured times, and throughout the school day
- Building a strong, trusted relationship that helps the learner feel safe and supported
- Working closely with teachers, SENCOs, and pastoral teams to ensure consistent support
- Monitoring progress and contributing to support plans and pupil reviews
Why you’ll love this role:
- Make a genuine difference in one young person’s life
- See the impact of your support day by day
- Gain valuable experience in SEMH and inclusive education
- Work within supportive schools and teams across Pontefract
- Feel proud of the role you play in a learner’s journey
If you’re reliable, caring, and motivated by helping young people overcome challenges, we would love to hear from you.
121 Teaching Assistant in Wakefield employer: New Directions Holdings Limited
New Directions Education is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff while making a profound impact on the lives of young learners. With a strong focus on supportive work culture, ongoing training in trauma-informed practices, and opportunities for professional growth, employees can thrive in their roles as 1:1 Teaching Assistants. Located in Pontefract, you will be part of a dedicated team that values inclusion and celebrates the small victories of every learner, ensuring that your contributions are both meaningful and rewarding.
Contact Detail:
New Directions Holdings Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 121 Teaching Assistant in Wakefield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education, join relevant groups on social media, and attend local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a teaching assistant role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEMH needs and behaviour management. We recommend role-playing with a friend or family member to build your confidence and refine your responses.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for supporting young people during interviews. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your patience and empathy. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and eager to join our community of dedicated teaching assistants.
We think you need these skills to ace 121 Teaching Assistant in Wakefield
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 stories that highlight your patience and empathy, as these qualities are key to the role.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific needs of the role. Mention your understanding of SEMH needs and any relevant experience you have, so we can see how you fit into our team.
Be Authentic:We want to get to know the real you! Don’t be afraid to show your personality in your application. Authenticity goes a long way in building trust, which is crucial for this role.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This way, your application will be seen by the right people, and we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at New Directions Holdings Limited
✨Know Your Impact
Before the interview, think about how your patience and empathy can make a difference in a young person's life. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported someone in the past, especially in challenging situations.
✨Familiarise Yourself with SEMH Needs
Research Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and trauma-informed practices. This will show that you understand the role's requirements and are genuinely interested in making a positive impact on learners' lives.
✨Showcase Your Teamwork Skills
Since you'll be working closely with teachers and pastoral teams, highlight your ability to collaborate effectively. Prepare examples of how you've worked as part of a team to support a learner or resolve a challenging situation.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask during the interview that demonstrate your interest in the role and the school environment. For instance, inquire about their approach to emotional regulation or how they support their teaching assistants in building relationships with students.
