Teaching Assistant – Level 2 (SEMH), 37 hpw (Term Time only) (Epinay School)

Required as soon as possible.

School Moto & Ethos: Ready to Listen, Ready to Learn Together. All our young people to become Happy, Independent Learners who are Prepared for Adulthood.

Epinay Business & Enterprise School is an outstanding special school currently providing approximately 260 places to pupils from KS1 to KS5. Our pupils have significant learning difficulties and/or diagnosed learning disabilities who are working significantly below age related expectations. Many experience barriers in cognition, processing, literacy, numeracy and communication which require highly specialised teaching approaches. All pupils have Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and benefit from personalised learning programmes, specialist teaching approaches and a holistic, multi‑disciplinary model to education. We are committed to providing a structured, nurturing and aspirational environment where every pupil is valued and enabled to achieve their full potential.

In addition to their learning needs, the pupils may have some social communication differences, speech and language needs, sensory processing differences and a diagnosis of Autism. Some pupils may also present with social vulnerability and require targeted support to develop independence and resilience.

At our state‑of‑the‑art school, we create a safe and inclusive centre of excellence by providing a stimulating environment where learners are supported to achieve challenging and aspirational outcomes in order to develop as happy, confident and independent learners who are prepared for adulthood.

We are seeking a skilled, dedicated, resilient and compassionate Teaching Assistant (TA) to join our supportive team, supporting pupils who have Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. This is a rewarding opportunity to work closely with students who require support to thrive and to overcome barriers to learning.

Key responsibilities of the role are:

• Provide 1:1 and small group support for pupils with SEMH needs
• Support students in managing behaviour and emotions positively
• Assist in delivering tailored learning activities
• Build strong, trusting relationships with students and parents/carers
• Work collaboratively with Teachers, HLTAs and external professionals
• Promote a safe, nurturing and inclusive learning environment

The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience of working with children or young people with SEMH needs
• Be calm, patient and resilient under pressure
• Have strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Be able to set clear boundaries while showing empathy
• Be committed to safeguarding and promoting pupil welfare

This is a rewarding role where you can make a genuine impact. Epinay School prides itself on the behaviour, attitudes and achievements of its pupils and we are seeking a practitioner who shares our high expectations and commitment to inclusive excellence. The role requires flexibility, emotional resilience and a commitment to helping pupils overcome barriers to learning.

The school is committed to investing in our staff and developing expertise in specialist SEND practice. We offer high quality CPD opportunities on a regular basis and opportunities to work alongside and learn from therapists and other multi‑disciplinary professionals. You will have access to accredited training where appropriate and regular instructional coaching and professional dialogue. There are also opportunities to contribute to whole school improvement.

Epinay School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. Applicants will be expected to show they have researched the school; its designation, cohort groups, specialist provision groups and curriculum offer. Visits to the school are recommended and can be arranged through Sandra Stephenson, Head’s PA, on 0191 4898949 or email sstephenson5@epinay.org.

South Tyneside Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment, and an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) disclosure will be sought along with other relevant pre‑employment checks. In line with the guidance in Keeping Children Safe in Education, schools may carry out an online search as part of their due diligence on shortlisted candidates.

We do not currently offer skilled worker visa sponsorship. To apply for this post please download and complete the application form which is saved in “Supporting Documents” and return this to jobs@southtyneside.gov.uk. Closing date: Noon, Friday 24 April 2026.