Behaviour Support Assistant

Talent Education; Burnley; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialist behaviour support provider in Burnley is seeking a committed SEMH Teaching Assistant. The role involves supporting secondary-aged students facing significant social, emotional, and mental health challenges. Key responsibilities include 1:1 support, de-escalation of challenging situations, and creating nurturing learning environments. Ideal candidates should have experience with similar roles, possess strong relationship-building skills, and be able to work effectively under pressure. This position offers a pathway to a permanent role for the right fit.

Benefits

Ongoing training and career development

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Experience in SEMH, youth work, care, or similar roles.
• Comfortable managing challenging behaviours.
• Resilience and calmness under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils on a 1:1 and small-group basis.
• De-escalate challenging situations.
• Build positive relationships to encourage engagement.

Skills

Working with challenging behaviours

De-escalation skills

Relationship-building

Supporting secondary-aged pupils

Job description

SEMH Teaching Assistant – Burnley

Secondary Aged Students

Are you passionate about making a difference for young people who need the most support? We’re looking for a committed SEMH Teaching Assistant to join a specialist behaviour unit in Burnley, supporting students who are currently unable to access mainstream education. This includes pupils with significant social, emotional and mental health needs, challenging behaviours, and those who have been permanently excluded.

About the Role

As an SEMH TA, you will:

• Support secondary-aged pupils on a 1:1 and small-group basis
• Help de-escalate challenging situations using calm, confident behaviour management strategies
• Build positive, trusting relationships to encourage engagement and progression
• Work alongside teachers and support staff to create a safe, nurturing learning environment
• Adapt learning activities to meet emotional and behavioural needs
• Promote resilience, positive choices, and personal development

What We’re Looking For

You’ll be a great fit if you:

• Are comfortable working with challenging behaviours
• Have strong de-escalation and relationship-building skills
• Have experience in SEMH, youth work, care, sports coaching, alternative provision, or similar roles with transferable skills
• Are resilient, calm under pressure, and committed to helping young people thrive
• Are looking for a temp-to-perm position where you can genuinely make an impact

Why Join This school?

• Supportive team with a shared mission to transform lives
• Opportunities for ongoing training and career development
• A chance to work with students who need patience, understanding and encouragement the most
• Pathway to a permanent role for the right person

If you’re ready to take on a rewarding challenge and help young people re-engage with their education, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now and make a real difference in Burnley.

Job Types: Full-time, Temp to perm

Application question(s):

Do you have experience with challenging behaviours?

Work Location: In person