SEMH Learning Support Assistant

Hays Specialist Recruitment - Education; Horley; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity awaits at a brand new SEMH school set to open in September 2025. This vibrant institution is dedicated to helping students aged 11 to 19 realize their full potential, regardless of their challenges. As a SEMH Learning Support Assistant, you will play a crucial role in fostering a positive learning environment, assisting students with their emotional and social well-being, and collaborating with dedicated professionals. Join a team committed to making a difference in the lives of young people, and be part of a unique journey in education that promises growth and innovation.

Benefits

Flexible working options

Professional training opportunities

Competitive pay

Dedicated team

Beautiful school setting

Qualifications

• Experience working with children with SEMH needs is preferred.
• Relevant qualifications or training in ELSA and First Aid are desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide tailored support to students with SEMH needs.
• Assist with behaviour management strategies.
• Foster positive relationships with students.

Skills

Experience with SEMH needs

Communication skills

Behaviour management

Empathy

Calmness under pressure

Education

Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification

Job description

Job Title - SEMH Learning Support Assistant
Location - Horley
Salary - Dependent on experience
Start Date - September 2025
Job Type - Permanent

Your new company
We are working with a brand new SEMH school due to open in September 2025 for pupils aged 11 to 19 years old. It is a vibrant specialist school, committed to providing each child and young person the opportunity to realise their full potential regardless of the challenges they face. The school is based close in Surrey, close to Crawley and will be providing places for 34 students from all local authorities. There are plans to further develop the school after the first year into an intake of 50 students and introducing vocational subjects and settings for beauticians, music and food technology.
The school offers a broad and personalised curriculum to meet the needs of pupils with EHCPs for Social, Emotional and Mental Health. We are looking for a team of dedicated individuals and talent professionals who are committed to the wellbeing and success of every student. Each classroom will have a maximum of 5 students to 1 teacher and 1 learning support assistant. The school has 7 classrooms with opportunity to expand after the first year. There is a sensory room with tools stimulating the five senses to support pupils.

Your new role
We are seeking a compassionate and proactive SEMH Teaching Assistant to work closely with students who require additional support in managing their emotional and social well-being. The successful candidate will play a vital role in creating a positive and inclusive learning environment, assisting students in developing their confidence, communication skills, and self-regulation strategies.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide tailored support to students with SEMH needs, both in and outside the classroom.
• Assist with behaviour management strategies, ensuring a supportive and structured environment.
• Foster positive relationships with students, helping them build emotional resilience.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, and other staff to implement individualised learning and support plans.
• Encourage and motivate students to engage fully in their education and personal development.

What you'll need to succeed

• Experience working with children with SEMH needs (preferred but not essential).
• Strong understanding of emotional and behavioural difficulties and how to support students effectively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and empathetic in challenging situations.
• A relevant qualification (such as Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant or related courses) is desirable.
• Training in ELSA is desirable but not essential.
• First Aid training is desirable but not essential.

What you'll get in return
This is a unique opportunity to work in a brand new setting, bringing new ideas and helping the school grow and develop in its first year.

• Flexible working options available
• Professional training opportunities
• Competitive pay
• Dedicated team
• Beautiful school setting

What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.

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