Challenging Behaviour Teaching Assistant

Simply Education Ltd.; Basildon; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

Simply Education Ltd. is recruiting for a Challenging Behaviour Teaching Assistant in Basildon, Essex.

The role involves providing dedicated 1:1 support for a pupil with challenging behaviours, working with the class teacher and SENCO to implement strategies and maintain a calm, structured learning environment. The successful candidate will have experience with SEMH, ASD or ADHD needs, strong safeguarding practices and a commitment to helping the pupil engage with learning during term time only

Qualifications

• Experience supporting pupils with behavioural, social or emotional needs.
• Calm, resilient and confident approach in challenging situations.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting well‑being.

Responsibilities

• Provide dedicated 1:1 support to a pupil with challenging behaviour throughout the day.
• Build trusting relationships with the pupil and work with teachers and SENCO.
• Identify triggers, implement strategies, and de‑escalate when needed.
• Support classroom learning and adapt tasks to the pupil’s needs.
• Record incidents and observations; provide feedback to staff.
• Promote inclusion and help develop communication and social skills.
• Maintain professional boundaries and follow safeguarding procedures.
• Support transitions, breaks and structured activities with consistency.

Skills

Challenging behaviour management

SEMH experience

De-escalation techniques

Calm, resilient demeanor

Safeguarding awareness

Job description

Challenging Behaviour Teaching Assistant - Basildon, Essex

Location: Basildon, Essex

Position: Challenging Behaviour Teaching Assistant

Contract: Full-Time, Term Time Only

Hours: 8:30am - 3:30pm, Monday-Friday

Pay: £95-£100 per day

Start Date: ASAP

Are you a resilient, patient and confident Challenging Behaviour Teaching Assistant with experience supporting primary-aged pupils with behavioural, social or emotional needs?

We are working in partnership with a welcoming and inclusive primary school in Basildon that is seeking an experienced individual to provide dedicated support to a pupil who can display challenging behaviour.

This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who understands that behaviour is often a form of communication and can provide consistent, calm and structured support to help a child successfully engage with their learning. It is an excellent opportunity to further develop your experience within education and training.

About the School

This is a welcoming and inclusive primary school that is committed to providing every child with the opportunity to succeed academically, socially and emotionally.

The school places a strong emphasis on creating a safe and nurturing learning environment, with staff working collaboratively to meet the individual needs of pupils. Children are encouraged to develop confidence, independence, resilience and positive relationships with others.

Staff benefit from a supportive leadership team and a collaborative approach to pupil wellbeing. The school recognises that some children require additional support to overcome barriers to learning and is committed to providing appropriate strategies and interventions.

This makes it a fantastic environment for someone looking to build their experience within education and training while making a genuine difference to a child's school experience.

The Role

As a Challenging Behaviour Teaching Assistant, you will provide consistent support to a pupil who requires additional help managing their behaviour, emotions and engagement with learning.

You will work closely with the class teacher, SENCO and wider pastoral/support team to understand potential triggers and implement strategies that enable the pupil to participate successfully in school life.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing dedicated 1:1 support throughout the school day
• Building a positive, trusting and professional relationship with the pupil
• Supporting the pupil to access classroom learning and complete appropriate activities
• Identifying potential behavioural triggers and responding proactively
• Recognising early signs of dysregulation and intervening appropriately
• Using calm and consistent de-escalation strategies
• Supporting the pupil to regulate their emotions and develop appropriate coping strategies
• Implementing individual behaviour plans and agreed support strategies
• Using positive reinforcement to encourage appropriate behaviour and engagement
• Maintaining clear, consistent and appropriate boundaries
• Supporting the pupil during transitions between lessons and activities
• Providing additional support during less structured periods such as breaktimes and lunchtimes
• Helping the pupil develop communication and social interaction skills
• Supporting the development of positive relationships with peers and adults
• Encouraging independence, resilience and self-confidence
• Helping the pupil recognise and communicate their emotions appropriately
• Providing a safe space for regulation where this forms part of the agreed support plan
• Redirecting the pupil back towards learning following incidents or periods of dysregulation
• Supporting academic activities on a 1:1 basis and adapting tasks where appropriate
• Working with the pupil individually or within small groups
• Monitoring behaviour, engagement and progress
• Recording incidents and relevant observations accurately
• Providing regular feedback to the class teacher and SENCO
• Working collaboratively with teachers, support staff, parents/carers and external professionals where appropriate
• Following individual risk assessments and behaviour support plans
• Maintaining confidentiality and professional boundaries
• Following the school's safeguarding, behaviour and health and safety procedures at all times
• Promoting inclusion and helping the pupil participate positively in wider school life

What We're Looking For

The successful candidate will ideally have previous experience supporting children who display challenging behaviour, SEMH needs, emotional dysregulation, ASD, ADHD or additional behavioural needs.

You will need to be calm, resilient and confident when responding to difficult situations. The ability to avoid taking behaviour personally and remain consistent in your approach is essential.

Experience using positive behaviour management and de-escalation techniques would be highly beneficial, along with an understanding of how additional needs can influence a child's behaviour and ability to access learning.

You should also be committed to safeguarding and passionate about helping vulnerable pupils achieve positive outcomes through education and training.

Why Apply?

This is an opportunity to join a supportive primary school in Basildon where pupil wellbeing, inclusion and individual development are prioritised.

You’ll work closely with experienced teaching and support staff while gaining valuable experience in behaviour management, SEND and pastoral support.

Most importantly, you’ll have the opportunity to provide the consistency and positive adult relationship that can make a significant difference to a child's experience of school.