SEMH Learning Support Assistant

Long Term Futures Ltd; Rugby; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Long Term Futures is seeking a dedicated SEMH Learning Support Assistant to join a welcoming primary school in Rugby (CV21) from September 2026. This 1:1 role involves supporting two pupils throughout the day, with morning support for a Year 3 pupil with SEMH/PDA and afternoon support for a Year 5 pupil with similar needs.

The role focuses on reintegration into the classroom using relationship-based approaches to build trust, emotional regulation and engagement, in a school with a supportive

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children with SEMH or behavioural needs.
• Experience with PDA or Autism is highly desirable.
• Strong behaviour management and de-escalation skills.
• Calm, resilient and patient approach to supporting vulnerable pupils.
• Ability to build positive relationships while maintaining clear boundaries.

Responsibilities

• Provide dedicated 1:1 support for a Year 3 pupil (morning) and Year 5 pupil (afternoon).
• Support pupils with SEMH needs and PDA.
• Build trusting relationships to encourage engagement and wellbeing.
• Implement strategies to promote reintegration into the classroom.
• Collaborate with teachers, SENCO, and pastoral team.

Skills

SEMH

PDA experience

Behaviour management

Relationship building

Safeguarding

Job description

SEMH Learning Support Assistant

Location: Rugby, CV21

Contract: Long-term

Day Rate: £110

Start Date: September 2026

Commutable From: Coventry, Nuneaton, Leamington Spa, Warwick, Daventry

The Opportunity:

Long Term Futures are seeking a resilient and compassionate SEMH Learning Support Assistant to join a welcoming primary school in the CV21 area from September 2026.

This rewarding 1:1 role involves supporting two pupils throughout the school day. During the morning, you will work closely with a Year 3 pupil with SEMH and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), before providing dedicated support to a Year 5 pupil in the afternoon with similar needs.

A key focus of the role will be helping both pupils successfully reintegrate into the classroom, using consistent, relationship-based approaches to build trust, emotional regulation, and engagement with learning. You'll be joining a highly supportive school with an experienced leadership team and a collaborative staff culture committed to helping every child succeed.

Your Key Responsibilities:

• Provide dedicated 1:1 support for a Year 3 pupil (morning) and Year 5 pupil (afternoon)
• Support pupils with SEMH needs and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)
• Build strong, trusting relationships to encourage engagement and emotional wellbeing
• Implement behaviour support plans and de-escalation strategies
• Support pupils with successful reintegration into the classroom following periods of dysregulation
• Work closely with the class teachers, SENCO, and pastoral team to deliver consistent support
• Promote positive behaviour, resilience, and independence throughout the school day
• Monitor progress and contribute to personalised support strategies

Requirements:

• Previous experience supporting children with SEMH or behavioural needs
• Experience working with pupils with PDA or Autism is highly desirable
• Strong behaviour management and de-escalation skills
• Calm, resilient, and patient approach to supporting vulnerable pupils
• Ability to build positive relationships while maintaining clear boundaries
• Commitment to safeguarding and inclusive education

Why Long Term Futures?

• A dedicated consultant supporting you throughout the recruitment process
• Access to free CPD, including SEMH, Autism Awareness, Behaviour Management, and Safeguarding training
• Long-term/permanent opportunities within supportive school environments
• Join a school with a highly experienced, collaborative, and welcoming staff team

All applicants must have an enhanced DBS and two references to be considered.

Successful candidates will be contacted over the next few days.

Long Term Futures is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be subject to safer recruitment checks including an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references