At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with SEMH needs to thrive academically and emotionally.
- Company: A supportive school environment focused on student wellbeing.
- Benefits: Term-time only, training opportunities, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Collaborative team atmosphere with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Empower young minds and help them achieve their full potential.
- Qualifications: Experience with children, strong communication skills, and a calm approach.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
To support pupils with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs by helping them access the curriculum, develop emotional regulation and resilience, and achieve their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide one-to-one and small group support for pupils with identified SEMH needs.
- Support pupils in managing emotions, behaviour, and engagement in learning activities.
- Help pupils understand instructions, remain focused, and complete learning tasks.
- Promote positive behaviour, emotional regulation strategies, and pro-social interactions.
- Build trusting relationships that support pupils’ emotional wellbeing and sense of safety.
- Encourage independence, confidence, self-esteem, and resilience.
Supporting Teaching and Learning
- Work closely with the class teacher and SEMH lead to adapt learning approaches to meet individual emotional and behavioural needs.
- Reinforce learning objectives set by the teacher and SEMH/behaviour support plans.
- Use de-escalation strategies, trauma-informed approaches, and positive behaviour support techniques.
- Support the implementation of Individual Behaviour Plans (IBPs), Individual Education Plans (IEPs), or EHCP targets where appropriate.
- Help create a structured, predictable, and supportive learning environment.
Monitoring and Reporting
- Observe and record pupil behaviour, emotional responses, and engagement in learning.
- Provide feedback to teachers, SEMH lead, and SENCO on pupil progress and wellbeing concerns.
- Contribute to behaviour reviews, pastoral meetings, and multi-agency discussions where appropriate.
Supporting the School
- Maintain a safe, consistent, and emotionally supportive learning environment.
- Follow safeguarding, behaviour, health and safety, and confidentiality policies at all times.
- Work collaboratively with teachers, pastoral staff, therapists, and external agencies (e.g. CAMHS, social care where relevant).
- Support pupils during transitions, unstructured times (break/lunch), and school activities where needed.
Person Specification
Essential
- Experience working with children or young people, particularly those with SEMH needs or challenging behaviour.
- A calm, patient, consistent, and empathetic approach.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to remain resilient in emotionally demanding situations.
- Understanding of safeguarding and commitment to pupil wellbeing.
Desirable
- Relevant qualifications (e.g. Level 2 or 3 Teaching Assistant qualification).
- Knowledge of SEMH approaches such as trauma-informed practice, restorative approaches, or positive behaviour support.
- Experience working in a school or alternative provision setting.
- Understanding of attachment difficulties or adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).
Working Conditions
- Term-time only (with possible training days).
- Hours as agreed by the school.
- Role may involve managing challenging behaviour and supporting pupils during emotional dysregulation or crisis situations, using approved de-escalation strategies.
SEMH Teaching Assistant in Chesterfield employer: PK Education
As a SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will join a supportive and inclusive school environment dedicated to fostering the emotional and academic growth of pupils with social, emotional, and mental health needs. Our commitment to professional development ensures that you will have access to ongoing training and resources, empowering you to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our students. With a strong emphasis on teamwork and collaboration, you will work alongside passionate educators and specialists, creating a nurturing atmosphere where both staff and students thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEMH Teaching Assistant in Chesterfield
✨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
Get involved in local community events or workshops related to SEMH. This not only boosts your knowledge but also helps you meet potential employers and showcase your passion for supporting pupils with emotional and behavioural needs.
✨Tip Number 3
When you land an interview, be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported children with SEMH needs in the past. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and make them memorable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to check our website for the latest SEMH Teaching Assistant roles! Applying directly through us gives you a better chance of standing out, and we’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals like you.
We think you need these skills to ace SEMH Teaching Assistant in Chesterfield
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 skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on sharing relevant examples from your past work or volunteering.
Showcase Your Soft Skills:Since this role requires a calm and empathetic approach, let us know about your communication and teamwork skills. Share stories that demonstrate your ability to build trusting relationships and support pupils emotionally.
Be Specific About Your Experience:When discussing your background, be specific about your experiences with children who have SEMH needs. We love details, so mention any strategies you’ve used or training you’ve completed that relate to emotional regulation and resilience.
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 the role. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
How to prepare for a job interview at PK Education
✨Know Your SEMH Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of social, emotional, and mental health needs. Familiarise yourself with trauma-informed practices and positive behaviour support techniques. Being able to discuss these approaches confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
During the interview, share examples of how you've supported children with SEMH needs in the past. Highlight your calm and patient approach, and how you've built trusting relationships. This will demonstrate your ability to connect with pupils and help them thrive.
✨Team Player Vibes
Since you'll be working closely with teachers and other staff, emphasise your teamwork skills. Talk about times when you've collaborated effectively to support a child's learning or wellbeing. This shows that you can contribute positively to the school environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you'd handle specific situations, like managing challenging behaviour or supporting a pupil during a crisis. Think through your responses ahead of time, using real-life examples to illustrate your strategies. This will help you stand out as a candidate who is ready for the challenges of the role.
