At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with SEMH needs in a nurturing environment, promoting learning and life skills.
- Company: Join a top-rated education supply agency committed to young people's development.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, professional development, networking events, and pension contributions.
- Other info: Full-time role with excellent support and progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing your career in education.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEND/SEMH is a plus; patience and empathy are essential.
The predicted salary is between 24700 - 26000 £ per year.
A compassionate and resilient SEMH Teaching Assistant is required to join a nurturing Pupil Referral Unit supporting pupils with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) for Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) and other additional needs. The setting provides a therapeutic and inclusive environment where every child is recognised and supported as an individual. Its tailored curriculum helps pupils to develop confidence, emotional literacy, and academic progress at a pace suited to their needs. Although this role will primarily support the primary age range, flexibility to work with Key Stage 3 pupils is essential to ensure consistent support and smooth transitions across the school.
What the Role Offers
- Access to a multi-disciplinary team, including therapeutic and pastoral professionals
- A holistic, child-centred approach that promotes resilience and self-regulation
- Ongoing professional development and opportunities for progression
Key Responsibilities
- Provide one-to-one and small-group support for pupils across the Primary Unit, with flexibility to assist KS3 students where required
- Support children in developing both learning and life skills through structured interventions
- Encourage positive behaviour, engagement, and social interaction in line with individual support plans
- Collaborate with teachers, therapists, and support staff to ensure a consistent, trauma-informed approach
- Contribute to creating a safe, trusting environment where every pupil feels valued and supported
Person Specification
- Experience supporting children with SEND and/or SEMH needs (desirable but not essential)
- A patient, empathetic, and adaptable approach to working with young people
- Commitment to promoting inclusion, wellbeing, and positive behaviour
- Full-time availability (Monday–Friday, 8:15am–4:00pm)
- A genuine desire to help pupils overcome barriers and reach their potential
What we offer
- Excellent daily rates paid using the PAYE system.
- Guaranteed pay scheme (subject to availability).
- Social and networking events.
- Pension contributions.
- CPD to help with your professional development.
- Access to a dedicated consultant.
About us: We are a market-leading education supply agency committed to the development of young people. With branches across the country, we are an employer of choice for high quality educators. The Edwin Group is a Top 10 UK-employer in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2023. Rated as 'Excellent' by our staff in all categories and recognised as having industry leading and world-class levels of employee engagement across the Group. We do not discriminate on the grounds of age, gender, race, colour, religion, disability or sexual orientation, and we welcome applications from all sections of the community.
How to apply
If you are a Special Needs Teaching Assistant who can enthuse, motivate and engage learners and would like the challenge of working in a rewarding environment, then we want to hear from you. Apply today via this website, or for more information about this role and other opportunities call us on (phone number removed).
SEMH Teaching Assistant employer: Smart Teachers
Smart Teachers is an exceptional employer that prioritises the professional growth of its staff while fostering an inclusive and supportive work culture. Located in Romford, the school offers a collaborative environment where educators can thrive, with ample opportunities for training and development, particularly in SEND coordination. Joining our leadership team means being part of a dedicated community committed to shaping every pupil's potential.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEMH Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values! Research the Pupil Referral Unit and understand their approach to SEMH. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or at local education events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you when you apply through our website.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for scenario-based questions! Think about how you'd handle specific situations with pupils who have SEMH needs. Practising your responses will help you feel more confident and ready to impress during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your application! A quick email thanking them for considering your application shows enthusiasm and professionalism. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they review candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace SEMH Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. It’s packed with info about what we’re looking for in a SEMH Teaching Assistant, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and person specification.
Tailor Your Application:When writing your application, don’t just send a generic one. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the role. We want to see how you can contribute to our nurturing environment and support our pupils effectively.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm shine through! We love candidates who are genuinely passionate about helping young people with SEMH needs. Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you to work in this field.
Apply Promptly Through Our Website:Don’t wait around! The sooner you apply, the better your chances of getting noticed. Head over to our website and submit your application – we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smart Teachers
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a SEMH Teaching Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health challenges. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in supporting these students.
✨Show Your Compassion
During the interview, be ready to share examples of how you've supported children in the past, especially those with additional needs. Highlight your patience and empathy, as these qualities are crucial for this role. Use real-life scenarios to illustrate your approach to fostering a nurturing environment.
✨Flexibility is Key
Since the role requires working with both primary and Key Stage 3 pupils, emphasise your adaptability. Be prepared to discuss how you would handle different age groups and learning styles. This shows that you can provide consistent support across the school.
✨Collaborate and Communicate
Talk about your experience working in teams, especially with teachers and therapists. Mention how you can contribute to a trauma-informed approach and create a safe space for pupils. Good communication skills are essential, so be sure to convey your ability to work collaboratively.
