At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people with SEMH needs and manage challenging behaviour in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Established PRU in Cardiff dedicated to alternative education.
- Benefits: Ongoing support, CPD training, guaranteed payment scheme, and referral bonuses.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and grow your career in specialist education.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable learners and help them thrive.
- Qualifications: Experience with challenging behaviour and strong behaviour management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
We are currently recruiting confident, resilient, and compassionate Youth Workers and SEN Teaching Assistants to work within a well‑established PRU in Cardiff. This alternative provision supports pupils aged 11–16 with Social, Emotional & Mental Health (SEMH) needs, behavioural challenges, and Additional Learning Needs (ALN). If you have experience in youth work, SEND education, alternative provision, or behaviour support, this is an excellent opportunity to progress your career within specialist education settings.
About the PRU Role
This Pupil Referral Unit provides structured, supportive education for students who require a more personalised and therapeutic approach to learning. As a Youth Worker, ALN Learning Support Assistant (LSA), or SEN Teaching Assistant, you will:
- Provide 1:1 and small group support
- Support pupils with SEMH, EBD, ADHD and trauma‑related needs
- Manage and de‑escalate challenging behaviour
- Help deliver personalised learning and behaviour plans
- Promote emotional regulation and resilience
- Build strong, consistent relationships with vulnerable learners
- Maintain a calm, safe and structured environment
This role requires individuals who are calm under pressure, strong with boundaries, and committed to making a positive impact in alternative education.
Who We’re Looking For
To be considered for this PRU Teaching Assistant or Youth Worker job in Cardiff, you must have:
- A minimum of 6 months’ experience supporting young people with challenging behaviour
- Experience within a PRU, SEND school, youth work setting, care environment, or alternative provision
- Strong behaviour management and de‑escalation skills
- A nurturing, patient and resilient approach
- Excellent written and spoken English
- Right to work in the UK
- A full 5‑year employment history with all gaps explained
- Two years of references (including education or care)
- Enhanced DBS (or willingness to obtain one)
Experience with trauma‑informed practice, restorative approaches, or Team Teach‑style strategies is highly desirable. Working in a PRU in Cardiff offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of young people who need consistency, structure, and positive role models.
Benefits
- Dedicated education consultants available for ongoing support
- Access to CPD training and professional development
- Guaranteed Payment Scheme (T&Cs apply)
- £100 referral bonus scheme (T&Cs apply)
- Opportunities across PRUs, SEND schools and alternative provisions in Cardiff and surrounding areas
If you are ready to take the next step as a Youth Worker, ALN LSA, or SEN Teaching Assistant, apply today. Our team will contact you to discuss current PRU and SEND vacancies in Cardiff and how we can support your career in specialist education.
Equal Opportunities
TeacherActive is an equal opportunities employer and operates as an Employment Business and Employment Agency in providing temporary, contract and permanent job seeking services. Safeguarding and DBS Compliance Registration may involve an enhanced DBS check, ID checks and the supply of good professional references, depending on the role. We are committed to safeguarding and compliance across all placements.
PRU teaching assistant in Cardiff employer: TeacherActive
Working as a PRU Teaching Assistant in Cardiff offers a rewarding opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of young people with diverse needs. Our supportive work culture prioritises professional development, providing access to ongoing training and dedicated consultants to guide your career progression. Join us in a role where compassion and resilience are valued, and enjoy the benefits of a guaranteed payment scheme and referral bonuses while working in a structured and nurturing environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PRU teaching assistant in Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with PRUs or have experience in youth work. A friendly chat can lead to insider info on job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEMH and behaviour management. We recommend role-playing with a friend or family member to build your confidence and refine your responses.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for supporting vulnerable learners during interviews. Share specific examples from your experience that highlight your resilience and ability to manage challenging behaviour effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in landing that perfect role in a PRU.
We think you need these skills to ace PRU teaching assistant in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting young people shine through. We want to see your enthusiasm for working in a PRU and how you can make a positive impact on students with SEMH needs.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in youth work or SEND education. We’re looking for specific examples of how you've managed challenging behaviour or supported vulnerable learners, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured writing that gets straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences. Avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get in touch about current vacancies. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at TeacherActive
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the specific needs of pupils with SEMH, EBD, and ADHD. Familiarise yourself with trauma-informed practices and behaviour management strategies. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're ready to make a positive impact.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past roles where you've successfully supported young people with challenging behaviour. Highlight any specific techniques you've used to de-escalate situations or promote emotional regulation. Real-life stories can really resonate with interviewers.
✨Be Calm and Collected
Since the role requires someone who can stay calm under pressure, practice your responses to potential challenging scenarios. Think about how you would manage difficult behaviour or support a pupil in crisis. This will show your resilience and ability to handle tough situations.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewer. Show your compassionate side and express your commitment to supporting vulnerable learners. A warm, genuine approach can set you apart and demonstrate that you’re the right fit for the role.
