Higher Level teaching Assistant (SEMH)

Tradewind Recruitment; Enfield; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking experienced Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTA) in Enfield to support students with social, emotional, and mental health needs. Candidates should have an HLTA qualification and a strong knowledge of therapeutic practices. This role involves leading interventions, mentoring assistants, and contributing to behavior support plans. Commitment to vulnerable young people's support is essential, with a focus on transformative SEMH education.

Benefits

Clear PAYE employment contracts

Access to 2,500+ professional development courses

Support from SEMH consultants

Qualifications

• Significant experience in SEMH settings with complex behavioural needs.
• Strong understanding of therapeutic approaches.
• Current Enhanced DBS on the Update Service.

Responsibilities

• Lead small group interventions under qualified teachers.
• Implement therapeutic approaches for vulnerable students.
• Mentor and support junior teaching assistants.

Skills

Advanced trauma-informed practice

Behaviour management strategies

Leadership skills

Ability to de-escalate situations

Education

HLTA qualification

Tools

Team Teach

Mental health first aid

Job description

Tradewind Recruitment are currently seeking experienced and dedicated Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTA) to work across a range of Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) Schools and SEMH Units throughout Enfield from September 2025.

We are partnering with multiple specialist SEMH settings including therapeutic schools, behaviour support centres, and alternative provision units, all seeking skilled practitioners to join their expert teams.

About the Opportunities: You will take on a senior support role working with students with SEMH needs across various specialist environments, supporting young people with emotional regulation difficulties, anxiety and trauma, ADHD, attachment disorders, and complex behavioural presentations. Your key responsibilities will typically include:

• Leading small group interventions and delivering structured learning sessions under the guidance of qualified teachers
• Implementing therapeutic approaches and positive behaviour support strategies with vulnerable students
• Mentoring and supporting junior teaching assistants and providing guidance on SEMH best practices
• Contributing to the development of behaviour support plans, risk assessments, and individualised learning programmes
• Taking responsibility for specific areas of the curriculum or therapeutic interventions as directed

The Ideal Candidate Will Demonstrate:

• HLTA qualification with substantial experience working in SEMH settings or with students presenting complex behavioural needs
• Advanced understanding of trauma-informed practice and therapeutic approaches to supporting mental health in education
• Proven ability to de-escalate challenging situations and implement effective behaviour management strategies
• Strong leadership skills and experience mentoring support staff or leading intervention programmes
• Additional training in areas such as mental health first aid, attachment theory, Team Teach, or therapeutic interventions would be highly advantageous
• Current Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or readiness to complete the application process

Why Choose Tradewind Recruitment?

• PAYE employment exclusively - clear, straightforward contracts
• Complimentary access to 2,500+ professional development courses via The National College
• Specialist SEMH consultants with comprehensive safeguarding expertise to support your career progression
• Strong relationships with diverse SEMH provisions across Enfield, offering varied and fulfilling opportunities

If you're passionate about supporting vulnerable young people and want to take on a leadership role in transformative SEMH education, we have the perfect opportunities waiting for you.

The next step is to send us your details. If you’re suitable, a consultant will be assigned to help you and will be in touch as soon as possible.

The next step is to send us your details. If you’re suitable, a consultant will be assigned to help you and will be in touch as soon as possible.