SEMH Inclusion Support Worker — Grow Your Career

At Joseph Norton Academy (part of the Wellspring Academy Trust), we do school a bit differently. We support wonderful children and young people with complex social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. No two days are ever the same here. Our pupils have ever changing needs due to their diverse backgrounds, which means we adapt, support, and grow together every single day. Above all, the most important things you can bring to this role are patience, empathy, a willingness to learn, and a genuine drive to help our pupils succeed.

Location: Busker Lane, Scissett, Huddersfield until we move to our brand new school in Deighton. Please note, if you live local to Deighton but Scissett is not commutable via public transport, we may be able to offer assistance with travel.

Hours: 32.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday (Term time only plus 5 inset days).

We are growing and looking for positive, resilient people to join our supportive team in one of two key roles:

• Teaching Assistant
  • Perfect if: You are starting out in your career, looking to build classroom confidence, or don't quite meet the criteria for the ISW role yet.
  • The Role: Keep the classroom structured and running smoothly by prepping resources, helping pupils with reading and academic work, and establishing positive routines.
  • The Path: This is the perfect stepping stone to gain the experience, training and driving qualifications needed to progress into our Inclusion team.
• Inclusion Support Worker
  • Perfect if: You have a keen interest in working in SEMH education, have the relevant qualifications (Maths and English) and hold a valid driving licence.
  • The Role: Work across the school, community and family homes. You will act as a calm co-regulator during challenging moments, use approved de-escalation techniques, and work closely with families to build solid routines.
  • The Path: This is the perfect position to help you develop the tools to become an Instructor or Positive Engagement Coach in the future.

What You Need

• Experience in a school or similar setting is desirable but not essential (SEMH experience is a bonus).
• GCSEs in English and Maths (or equivalent). Support may be provided for suitable candidates if you are willing to work towards these qualifications.
• A full driving licence OR a genuine willingness to learn (we can help fund your driving lessons if you start as a TA!).
• The absolute essentials? Patience, understanding, a willingness to learn, and the drive to help our pupils thrive.

What is in it for You?

• Clear Progression: Start as a TA and we will train, support and help fund your driving lessons to progress you to an ISW. Start as an Inclusion Support Worker and we will support you to progress within our setting, whether you'd like to become a Positive Engagement Coach or an Instructor.
• Great Balance And Support: Term time hours mean school holidays off to recharge. Our Senior Leaders are approachable, supportive and open.
• Culture & Perks: Exceptional ongoing training and brilliant trust benefits through Wellspring Academy Trust.

Ready to Apply? Please complete our online application form here: https://mynewterm.com/jobs/143227/EDV-2026-JNA-09197. Unsure which role fits you best? Apply anyway! We will look at your experience and chat through the best starting point for you. For an informal chat, email Lauren at lleibrick@wellspringacademies.org.uk.

We are committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. We want our people to reflect our diverse communities and create a safe space in which everyone belongs. We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds and especially those from under-represented groups including those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.

Safeguarding: We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils. All posts are offered subject to enhanced DBS checks and appropriate references. All posts are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early so if you are interested - apply ASAP.