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- Tasks: Support students with SEMH needs and help create a positive learning environment.
- Company: New Directions, a specialist SEMH school in Blackley.
- Benefits: Long-term role with potential for continued employment and professional growth.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to supporting vulnerable learners.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people who need your support.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEMH or additional learning needs; strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
New Directions is currently recruiting for a dedicated and resilient Teaching Assistant to work full-time in a specialist SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) school in Blackley. This is a long-term opportunity, ideal for someone passionate about supporting young people who require additional emotional and behavioural support to access education. The school are looking for someone who has experience working within a Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) setting and have a strong understanding of trauma-informed practice. The role is due to start as soon as possible and will continue for the rest of the academic year with the opportunity for it to continue in September 2026.
The Role
- Provide 1:1 and small group support to pupils with SEMH needs
- Assist the class teacher in delivering engaging and differentiated lessons
- Support pupils in managing their behaviour and emotions
- Help create a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment
- Build positive and trusting relationships with students and staff
- Promote the social and emotional development of pupils
The Candidate
- Experience working with children or young people with SEMH, behavioural needs, or additional learning needs
- Confident in appropriately challenging pupils across all secondary age ranges
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- The ability to manage challenging behaviour effectively
- A genuine passion for supporting vulnerable learners
- Team Teach trained with strong, effective de-escalation techniques
- Able to build strong, trusting relationships that support engagement and progress
- Calm, resilient and emotionally literate; able to remain regulated under pressure
A genuine passion for working with children and young people with complex needs.
SEMH Teaching Assistant in Trafford Park employer: New Directions
Contact Detail:
New Directions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEMH Teaching Assistant in Trafford Park
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEMH students. 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 practising common questions related to SEMH support. Think about your experiences and how they relate to trauma-informed practices. We want you to showcase your passion and skills effectively!
✨Tip Number 3
When you get an interview, be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used to support students with SEMH needs. Share examples of how you've built trusting relationships and managed challenging behaviours – this will show you're the right fit!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing passionate candidates like you who are eager to make a difference in the lives of young people.
We think you need these skills to ace SEMH Teaching Assistant in Trafford Park
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for supporting young people shine through. Share specific experiences that highlight your dedication to working with SEMH students and how you've made a positive impact in their lives.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to the role by using keywords from the job description. Highlight your experience with trauma-informed practices and any relevant training, like Team Teach, to show you're the perfect fit for the position.
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to be yourself! Authenticity goes a long way in making a connection with the hiring team. Share your personal journey and what drives you to work in SEMH settings, as this can really resonate with us.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right place quickly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
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 (SEMH) practices. Be ready to discuss trauma-informed approaches and how they can positively impact students. This shows that you’re not just passionate but also well-informed about the needs of the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported young people with SEMH needs. Whether it’s a challenging behaviour you managed or a relationship you built, having concrete stories will help you stand out.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Since strong communication is key in this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think about how you would explain complex ideas simply, as you may need to do this with both students and staff.
✨Emphasise Your Resilience
Being calm and resilient under pressure is crucial in a SEMH setting. Be prepared to discuss situations where you’ve had to stay composed and how you managed your emotions while supporting others. This will highlight your suitability for the role.