SEMH Teaching Assistant - September

Are you an experienced Teaching Assistant looking for a new challenge in September?

A specialist school in Portsmouth is seeking a 1:1 Learning Support Assistant to support Secondary aged pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. The setting supports vulnerable children aged 11-16 with social, emotional and mental health needs which can sometimes be characterised as challenging behaviour or dysregulation.

The successful candidate will provide consistent and individualised support to help their pupils manage emotions, remain engaged with learning, and develop confidence within the classroom, whilst supporting the class Teacher to carry out bespoke learning plans. The school provides a structured and supportive environment, with small classes (around six pupils) and strong staff support.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and group classroom support for pupils with SEMH needs
• Support the pupil’s emotional regulation, behaviour, and engagement with learning
• Work collaboratively with teachers and pastoral staff to implement support strategies
• Help maintain a calm, safe, and structured learning environment

The Ideal Candidate

• Previous experience working with children in a school or educational setting
• A calm, patient, and resilient approach to supporting pupils with additional needs
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Experience with SEMH or SEN children or adults

We welcome applicants from a range of professional backgrounds who have relevant experience working with children. Please apply with an updated CV in order to be considered for the role.

A Child Workforce DBS on the Update Service is required, or applicants must be willing to obtain one.

All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
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.
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