At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with SEMH needs and build trusted relationships.
- Company: Teaching Personnel, dedicated to improving student wellbeing.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rates, weekly pay, and free training opportunities.
- Other info: Long-term role starting September 2026 with potential for permanent employment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEMH support and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Working with students whose social, emotional, and mental health needs affect their ability to engage with school is one of the most demanding - and most rewarding - things you can do in education. Teaching Personnel is looking for a Teaching Assistant with specific SEMH experience for a long-term temporary position at a secondary school in Durham, starting September 2026.
This isn't a general classroom support role. The school needs someone who understands how SEMH presents in young people, who can build trusted relationships with students who may have had difficult experiences of education, and who knows how to support and de-escalate without making things worse. You'll be working as part of a wider pastoral and inclusion team, but your impact will be felt most in the individual relationships you build over time.
What this role involves:
- Providing targeted support to students with identified SEMH needs across KS3 and KS4
- Building consistent, trusted relationships with students who find school challenging
- Working within individual support plans and contributing to their review
- De-escalating difficult situations calmly and with confidence
- Liaising with teachers, the SENCO, and pastoral staff to ensure a joined-up approach
- Supporting students in and out of the classroom depending on their needs on any given day
The right candidate will have:
- Demonstrable experience supporting young people with SEMH needs
- A calm, patient, and emotionally intelligent approach
- Confidence with behaviour management and de-escalation techniques
- An understanding of trauma-informed practice and how it applies in schools
- Strong communication skills across students, staff, and where appropriate, families
- Enhanced DBS on the Update Service
- Relevant qualifications in SEMH, mental health, or education are desirable but not essential
What Teaching Personnel offers:
- Competitive daily rates reflecting your experience
- Weekly pay via PAYE
- Dedicated consultant support
- Free CPD and SEMH-focused training
- Opportunities for permanent employment
Contract: Long-term temporary | Start: September 2026 | Location: Durham secondary school
SEMH Teaching Assistant in North East employer: Teaching Personnel
Teaching Personnel is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises the well-being of both staff and students. With competitive daily rates, dedicated consultant support, and opportunities for professional development through free CPD and SEMH-focused training, employees are empowered to grow in their roles while making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people in Durham. This long-term temporary position not only provides a chance to build trusted relationships with students but also contributes to a wider pastoral and inclusion team committed to fostering a positive educational environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEMH Teaching Assistant in North East
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEMH students. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet or can give you a heads-up on upcoming roles.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEMH support. Think about specific examples from your experience where you've successfully built relationships or de-escalated situations. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for SEMH in every conversation. Whether it's during an interview or a casual chat, let your enthusiasm for supporting students with emotional and mental health needs come through. It makes a huge difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we often have exclusive roles listed there that you won't find anywhere else.
We think you need these skills to ace SEMH Teaching Assistant in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your SEMH Experience:Make sure to highlight any specific experience you have working with students who have social, emotional, and mental health needs. We want to see how you've made a difference in their lives, so share those stories!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send the same application everywhere! Take a moment to tailor your CV and cover letter to this role. Mention how your skills align with the job description and why you're excited about working at a secondary school in Durham.
Be Yourself:We love authenticity! Let your personality shine through in your application. Share your passion for supporting young people and how you approach building relationships with students who may find school challenging.
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we see your application and can get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching Personnel
✨Know Your SEMH Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of social, emotional, and mental health needs. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used in the past to support students with SEMH challenges. This shows that you understand the role and can hit the ground running.
✨Build Rapport with Confidence
During the interview, demonstrate your ability to build relationships. Share examples of how you've connected with students in the past, especially those who have faced difficulties. This will highlight your emotional intelligence and ability to create a safe space for learning.
✨Showcase Your De-escalation Skills
Be prepared to talk about your approach to managing challenging behaviour. Discuss specific techniques you've employed to de-escalate situations calmly and effectively. This is crucial for the role, so make it a key part of your conversation.
✨Communicate Clearly and Effectively
Strong communication is essential in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Think about how you would explain complex ideas to students or collaborate with teachers and staff, as this will be a big part of your job.
