Learning Assistant Level 2 + SEN - SEMH provision

St Helens Council; St Helens; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

Ashurst Primary School is seeking a dedicated teaching assistant to support children with SEMH needs under the SEMH Teacher and SENCO. The role focuses on building positive relationships, 1:1 support, and helping learners re-integrate into mainstream education.

You will work as part of a supportive team, using a range of strategies to raise SEMH outcomes, manage behaviour, and develop social and emotional skills while promoting the child’s academic and personal development.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children with SEMH needs and managing behaviours in line with school policies.
• Ability to build positive relationships with pupils, parents and staff.

Responsibilities

• Support SEMH pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups to raise attainment.
• Assist the SEMH Teacher and SENCO in planning and delivering targeted programmes.
• Help pupils develop self-regulation, social and emotional skills to aid reintegration into mainstream learning.
• Collaborate with colleagues and communicate effectively with staff and parents about pupil needs.

Job description

'Excellence Everyday'

'Learn, Live, Laugh and Love Ashurst'

Ashurst Primary school is looking for a teaching assistant - with a passion for supporting children with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs - to work under the guidance of the SEMH Teacher and SENCO in building positive relationships with the children; with the aim of steering them back into mainstream school when they are ready.

We are looking for somebody who has the ability to:

• work with children with SEMH needs and the resultant behavioural difficulties including self-regulation needs, in order to help them overcome the difficulties they are experiencing in their education.
• raise standards of SEMH learners using a range of teaching strategies, in line with the school's policies and procedures.
• work under the guidance of the SEMH Teacher and SENCO in the planning and implementation of programmes of support for primary aged children with their SEMH concerns as part of a 1:1 role.
• Establish the ethos of the SEMH Provision and support the SEMH Teacher to ensure high standards and consistency.
• communicate effectively with staff and parents/carers regarding the learning needs of pupils who have SEMH concerns.

The role will involve working as part of a team and delivering individualised learning on 1:1 basis. Equally, the focus of the lessons will be to help the pupil to manage behaviour difficulties, social-emotional difficulties and in doing so develop self-regulation skills, social and emotional skills and to facilitate the child's academic and personal development.

The successful candidate will have experience of working with and effectively supporting a pupil on a 1:1 basis whose behaviour can be challenging - and be able to demonstrate a strong understanding of effective positive behaviour management.

This post is linked to school funding where additional support is required and will cease in line with this or if the child leaves the setting.

Working at Ashurst Primary School

Joining our school means becoming part of a vibrant, supportive community where every day brings new opportunities to inspire and be inspired. Here, you're not just a teacher or staff member - you're a vital part of a team dedicated to nurturing the potential of every child.

Our staff enjoy:

• A collaborative and friendly environment where ideas are valued and shared
• The rewarding experience of seeing students grow, succeed, and develop confidence
• Opportunities for continuous professional growth and leadership development
• The chance to make a real difference, shaping the future of our students
• A culture that balances high expectations with genuine care and respect

At Ashurst Primary School, we believe that happy, motivated staff create the best learning experience. That's why we prioritize wellbeing, celebrate achievements, and foster a strong sense of belonging.

Come join us - where your passion for education meets a community that truly cares.

Ashurst Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.

For more information regarding this role, please contact [e-mail]

Shortlisting will be held Friday 2 October 2026

Interviews will be held week commencing 5 October 2026

Full Job Description & Person Specification Documents are included with this advert.

This is an Enhanced Disclosure post.

We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, who share our values, our commitment to inclusion, and who will help us on our journey to transform our organisation. The Council guarantees an interview to disabled applicants who demonstrate that they meet the essential criteria for the job, as detailed on the Person Specification, and will, for qualifying disabled candidates, make reasonable adjustments within selection.