SEMH Teaching Assistant in Hampshire, Portsmouth

We are recruiting for a committed, resilient and enthusiastic Teaching Assistant to join a specialist secondary provision supporting pupils aged 11–16 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. This is a full-time role (Monday to Friday), term time only. The rate of pay breaks down to £14.25 per hour.

The Role: This is a varied, hands-on role where you will support teaching and learning across the school. You will work closely with class teachers to help pupils engage with lessons, build confidence and effectively manage their emotions.

Responsibilities on a day-to-day basis include:

• Supporting teachers in delivering structured, engaging lessons
• Work 1:1 and with small groups to reinforce learning
• Assist with classroom activities and adapt resources where needed
• Support behaviour management using agreed strategies
• Help pupils regulate emotions and stay engaged, particularly during challenging moments
• Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils
• Support pupils during less structured times of the day

You will not be expected to lead full classes independently, but confidence in supporting small group work is beneficial. There may also be a requirement to support with outdoor activities with pupils who might be dysregulated.

The Pupils: The school supports pupils with a range of SEMH needs on either a short-term placement or long-term basis depending on their level of support need. Many students may experience:

• Challenges managing emotions such as anger, anxiety or frustration
• Low confidence and self-esteem
• Difficulties with behaviour and engagement
• Barriers to forming positive relationships

A calm, consistent and empathetic approach is essential, along with the ability to set clear boundaries and build trust.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support teaching and learning in the classroom
• Provide 1:1 and small group support
• Promote positive behaviour and emotional regulation
• Help maintain a safe, structured and supportive environment
• Work collaboratively with teaching staff and wider school teams

The Ideal Candidate:

• Experience working with young people (school, care, youth work or similar)
• Experience in SEMH or additional needs
• Strong communication and behaviour support skills
• A patient, resilient and adaptable approach
• A genuine passion for supporting young people

All applicants must have a Child Workforce DBS registered on the Update Service, or be willing to apply for one as part of our vetting process. If you’re looking for a rewarding role where you can positively impact young people every day, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now with your CV to be considered! All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role.

Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants. We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.