Individual Needs Assistant – Hedge End

Engage Education; Eastleigh; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

Engage Education is seeking a dedicated 1:1 SEMH Teaching Assistant to support a pupil at a specialist school in Hedge End. You will help address emotional, social and learning needs, guiding the pupil through challenging moments with empathy and structure.

You will work closely with school staff to develop emotional regulation, resilience and independence, while maintaining a warm, supportive relationship that helps the pupil feel safe and understood.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children or young people with social, emotional or behavioural needs.
• Calm, consistent and empathetic approach to behaviour.
• Ability to build trusting relationships and respond sensitively to pupils’ needs.
• Demonstrate patience, resilience and the ability to set clear boundaries.
• Hold a full UK driving licence and have access to a car.

Responsibilities

• Provide tailored 1:1 support to meet emotional, social and learning needs.
• Help pupil manage challenging situations and develop emotional regulation strategies.
• Support pupil to build confidence, independence and resilience.
• Contribute to a calm, supportive learning environment for the student.

Skills

SEMH experience

Behaviour management

Empathy & patience

Relationship building

Job description

Individual Needs Assistant – Hedge End

Full-time | Immediate Start

Are you passionate about helping young people overcome challenges, build confidence and realise their potential? Do you have the patience, empathy and resilience to support pupils who need that little bit more understanding to succeed?

Engage Education is seeking a dedicated 1:1 SEMH Teaching Assistant to support pupils at a specialist school for children with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.

Every child deserves to feel safe, understood and valued. The school places strong emphasis on nurturing relationships, emotional wellbeing and helping pupils develop the confidence, resilience and independence they need to thrive. Its approach recognises that behaviour is communication and that consistent, compassionate support can make a life-changing difference.

This is an opportunity to become a trusted adult in a young person’s life, helping them navigate difficult emotions, develop positive relationships and re-engage with learning. You will play a vital role in creating a calm, supportive environment where pupils feel secure, understood and encouraged to achieve their potential.

The role

As a 1:1 SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with an individual pupil, providing tailored support to meet their emotional, social and learning needs. You will help them manage challenging situations, develop emotional regulation strategies and build the confidence to take positive steps towards greater independence.

The role would suit someone who understands that progress takes time and that consistency, patience and positive relationships are essential when supporting children with complex needs.

Previous experience in a school is not essential, as training and support will be provided. Experience supporting children or young people with SEMH needs, attachment difficulties or trauma is highly desirable.

What we’re looking for

The successful candidate will:

• Have experience working with children or young people with social, emotional or behavioural needs.

• Understand the importance of a calm, consistent and empathetic approach to behaviour.

• Be able to build trusting relationships and respond sensitively to pupils’ individual needs.

• Demonstrate patience, resilience and the confidence to maintain clear, positive boundaries.

• Encourage pupils to develop emotional regulation, resilience, self-esteem and independence.

• Bring warmth, positivity and a genuine commitment to helping young people succeed.

• Hold a full UK driving licence and have access to a car.

Who should apply?

We welcome applications from candidates with a range of professional backgrounds, including:

• Youth Workers looking to make a difference in an educational setting.

• Behaviour Mentors experienced in supporting young people through challenging situations.

• SEN Teaching Assistants looking to develop their experience in specialist SEMH provision.

• Pastoral Support Workers with a passion for emotional wellbeing and inclusion.

• Care and Support Workers with transferable skills in building positive, supportive relationships.

Above all, we are looking for someone who believes in young people, recognises their potential and is committed to helping them succeed, even when things get difficult.

Why work with Engage Education?

When you join Engage Education, you will benefit from:

• Fair pay: Pay in line with the Agency Worker Regulations, ensuring pay parity with comparable permanent employees where applicable.

• Dedicated support: A specialist consultant to guide you throughout your placement and provide ongoing support.

• Professional development: Access to free CPD training sessions delivered by experienced senior leaders.

• Refer-a-friend rewards: Receive a £50 Amazon voucher when a colleague you refer completes five days of work, subject to the scheme’s terms.

All successful candidates will be required to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, with assistance provided throughout the process.