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- Tasks: Support KS3–4 pupils with SEMH needs through 1:1 and small group assistance.
- Company: New Directions Education, a respected provider in the education sector.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, dedicated support, and potential long-term roles.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEMH and managing challenging behaviour is essential.
- Other info: Join a supportive team focused on staff wellbeing and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
New Directions are currently recruiting for an experienced SEMH Teaching Assistant to work within a specialist provision in Blackley, North Manchester. This setting supports Key Stage 3–4 pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs who are no longer in mainstream education but continue to work towards GCSEs and equivalent qualifications. This is a full-time, long-term role with the potential to become permanent for the right candidate.
The School
- A specialist SEMH provision supporting pupils disengaged from mainstream education
- Focuses on re‑engagement, emotional regulation, and academic progress
- Supports KS3–4 learners following personalised curricula including GCSE pathways
- Strong behaviour support framework and trauma‑informed approach
- Supportive leadership team with a strong focus on staff wellbeing and development
The Role
- Provide 1:1 and small group support to KS3–4 pupils with SEMH needs
- Support students with emotional regulation, behaviour management, and engagement in learning
- Assist pupils working towards GCSEs, Functional Skills, and vocational qualifications
- Implement behaviour support strategies and de‑escalation techniques
- Work closely with teachers, SENCOs, and pastoral staff to support individual learning plans
- Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils who may present challenging behaviour
The Candidate
- Must have SEMH experience working with KS3–4 pupils
- Experience supporting pupils who are no longer in mainstream education is essential
- Confident managing challenging behaviour and using positive behaviour strategies
- Patient, resilient, empathetic, and consistent in approach
- Backgrounds in youth work, care, support work, psychology, or behaviour mentoring are welcomed
What New Directions Education Ltd offers
- A dedicated and expert Account Manager
- Regular and varied supply work
- Competitive rates of pay
- Potential long‑term teaching roles
- Full compliance with the Agency Workers Regulation (AWR)
- A network of branches across the UK
- Preferred supplier to more than 20 boroughs across the UK
- Respected reputation across the education and recruitment industry
We are fully committed to the protection of children and vulnerable adults. All applicants must undertake a full enhanced DBS check. Please select Apply Now to enquire about this job vacancy with New Directions Education Ltd, Manchester branch. New Directions Education Ltd is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.
SEMH Teaching Assistant in Manchester employer: New Directions
Contact Detail:
New Directions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEMH Teaching Assistant in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEMH needs. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s approach to SEMH. Understand their values and how they support pupils. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience with challenging behaviour during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed situations in the past. This will demonstrate your capability and confidence in handling SEMH needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you land that SEMH Teaching Assistant role. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on new opportunities tailored just for you.
We think you need these skills to ace SEMH Teaching Assistant in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with SEMH needs. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on sharing relevant examples!
Showcase Your Skills: Emphasise your skills in behaviour management and emotional regulation. We’re looking for candidates who can demonstrate their ability to support students effectively, so let us know how you’ve done this in the past.
Be Authentic: When writing your application, be yourself! We appreciate genuine passion for supporting students with SEMH needs. Share your motivations and what drives you to work in this field.
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 New Directions
✨Know Your SEMH Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs. Understand the challenges faced by KS3–4 pupils who are disengaged from mainstream education. Being able to discuss specific strategies for emotional regulation and behaviour management will show that you're well-prepared and genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences working with SEMH pupils. Highlight any successful interventions or support strategies you've implemented. This will help demonstrate your capability and confidence in managing challenging behaviour and supporting students towards their academic goals.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on how you can build positive, trusting relationships with pupils. Discuss your approach to connecting with students who may present challenging behaviour. Showing empathy and understanding will resonate well with the interviewers, especially in a setting that prioritises emotional support.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the school's approach to SEMH support and how they implement behaviour strategies. This not only shows your interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the school’s values align with yours. It’s a great way to engage with the interviewers and leave a lasting impression.
