At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with emotional and behavioural needs in a hands-on, relationship-focused role.
- Company: Specialist primary school in North Bristol dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing training, and potential for permanent position.
- Other info: Term-time only, flexible hours, and a chance to grow within the team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEMH or additional needs is desirable; strong behaviour management skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
We’re looking for an SEMH support worker to join a specialist primary setting in North Bristol. This role is all about supporting children who have experienced trauma, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and who may present with social, emotional, mental health and behavioural needs. This isn’t a typical classroom role – it’s hands‑on, relationship‑focused, and requires someone who can stay calm, consistent and confident, even on the toughest days.
The role involves working with pupils aged 5–11, both 1:1 and in small groups. You’ll help them regulate emotions, engage with learning, and feel safe in school. Strong behaviour management is essential; you need to be comfortable setting boundaries and supporting children through challenging moments.
The position is term‑time only on a 0-hour contract, but there is a clear opportunity for this to become a permanent role.
What you’ll be doing:
- Working as an SEMH support worker providing 1:1 and small group support
- Building strong, trusting relationships with pupils
- Supporting emotional regulation and behaviour in and out of the classroom
- Managing and responding to challenging behaviour confidently
- Using de‑escalation strategies when needed
- Following behaviour plans and supporting consistent routines
- Working closely with teachers and other staff
What we’re looking for:
- Experience as an SEMH support worker or working with children with additional needs (desirable)
- Strong confidence managing behaviour – this is essential
- Understanding of trauma‑informed practice
- Awareness of ACEs and how they impact behaviour and learning
- Some understanding of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)
- Calm, patient, and able to stay consistent under pressure
- A team player who communicates well
- Access to a car is helpful but not essential
What you’ll get:
- Support from an experienced team
- Ongoing training around SEMH and trauma‑informed approaches
- Opportunity to move into a permanent position
- A role where you’ll genuinely make a difference
If you’re an SEMH support worker, or someone with the right mindset and experience, and you’re looking for something meaningful, this could be a good fit. Apply now to find out more.
SEMH Support Worker in Bristol employer: Vision for Education
Join a dedicated team in North Bristol as an SEMH Support Worker, where your role will be pivotal in transforming the lives of children facing emotional and behavioural challenges. We offer a supportive work culture with ongoing training opportunities, allowing you to grow professionally while making a meaningful impact in the lives of young learners. With the potential for a permanent position and a focus on trauma-informed practices, this is an excellent opportunity for those seeking a rewarding career in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEMH Support Worker in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work with SEMH. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet or can give you a heads-up on what schools are looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEMH support. Think about scenarios where you've successfully managed challenging behaviour or built strong relationships with children. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, let them see your enthusiasm for working with children who have experienced trauma. Share your experiences and how they’ve shaped your approach to support.
✨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 always on the lookout for dedicated SEMH support workers who want to make a real difference.
We think you need these skills to ace SEMH Support Worker in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with SEMH and working with children. Use specific examples that show how you've supported emotional regulation and managed challenging behaviour.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting children shine through! Share why you’re drawn to this role and how you can make a difference in their lives. We love seeing genuine passion in applications.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We want to understand your experience and skills without having to sift through unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vision for Education
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, brush up on your understanding of SEMH and trauma-informed practices. Familiarise yourself with how adverse childhood experiences can affect behaviour and learning. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're genuinely interested in supporting children.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to share specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully managed challenging behaviour or built strong relationships with children. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and make them impactful.
✨Stay Calm and Collected
Since the role requires someone who can remain calm under pressure, practice staying composed during the interview. If you're asked a tough question, take a moment to think before responding. This will not only reflect your ability to handle stress but also show your thoughtful approach to problem-solving.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the school's approach to behaviour management or how they support their SEMH staff. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.
