SEMH Specialist TA

Smile Education; Wolverhampton; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

Smile Education is currently recruiting on behalf of a welcoming and supportive SEN primary school in Wolverhampton for an experienced and dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistant to join their team after the October half-term break.

This is a full-time, long-term opportunity supporting pupils within a mixed Key Stage 2 class, with a particular focus on children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.

Qualifications

• Hold a minimum Level 2 qualification relevant to working with children.
• Provide a minimum of two references, with at least one commenting on interaction with children.
• Hold an enhanced DBS on the Update Service and be able to complete safeguarding checks.

Responsibilities

• Provide individual and small-group support to primary-aged pupils with SEMH needs.
• Support pupils with emotional regulation, self-esteem and social development.
• Manage and respond to challenging behaviour using positive behaviour strategies.
• Follow individual behaviour and support plans.
• Collaborate with teachers and the wider SEN team to maintain consistent boundaries and approaches.
• Encourage positive interactions, resilience and development of social skills.

Skills

SEMH knowledge

Behaviour management

Communication

Teamwork

Patience

Resilience

Education

Level 2 qualification

Job description

Smile Education is currently recruiting on behalf of a welcoming and supportive SEN primary school in Wolverhampton for an experienced and dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistant to join their team after the October half-term break.

This is a full-time, long-term opportunity supporting pupils within a mixed Key Stage 2 class, with a particular focus on children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. The class consists of a minimum of 12 pupils and benefits from a high staff-to-pupil ratio, ensuring children receive individualised support and can access a positive, engaging curriculum tailored to their abilities.

The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of SEMH and proven experience supporting primary-aged pupils who may struggle with emotional regulation, social interaction and challenging behaviour. You must be confident in implementing positive behaviour strategies, managing challenging situations and building trusting relationships with pupils to help them engage with learning and achieve their potential.

Consistency is essential for this role, so applicants must be able to commit to working full-time on a long-term basis.

The RoleAs an SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with the class teacher and wider SEN team to provide consistent, nurturing and structured support to pupils with social, emotional and behavioural needs.

The role will involve:

• Providing individual and small-group support to primary-aged pupils with SEMH needs.
• Supporting pupils with emotional regulation, self-esteem and social development.
• Managing and responding appropriately to challenging behaviour.
• Using positive behaviour support strategies and de-escalation techniques.
• Building strong, trusting relationships with pupils to encourage engagement and positive outcomes.
• Supporting pupils to access learning and develop their confidence and independence.
• Helping to create a calm, safe and structured learning environment.
• Working collaboratively with teachers and the wider SEN team to maintain consistent boundaries and approaches.
• Following individual behaviour and support plans.
• Encouraging positive interactions, resilience and the development of appropriate social skills.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

• Strong knowledge and understanding of SEMH and the challenges it can present for primary-aged pupils.
• Proven experience supporting children with SEMH needs, ideally within a specialist SEN or primary school setting.
• Excellent behaviour management skills and the ability to remain calm and consistent when faced with challenging behaviour.
• Experience using positive behaviour support and de-escalation strategies.
• The ability to build positive, trusting relationships with children.
• A patient, resilient, nurturing and adaptable approach.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• The ability to follow individual support plans and maintain consistent boundaries.
• A genuine passion for helping children overcome barriers to learning.
• The ability to commit to a full-time, long-term position starting after October half term.

Qualifications and Compliance Requirements Applicants must:

• Hold a minimum Level 2 qualification relevant to working with children, recognised in the UK.
• Provide a minimum of two references, with at least one commenting on their interaction with children.
• Hold an enhanced DBS on the Update Service.
• Be able to complete any additional safeguarding and compliance checks required by Smile Education.

Why Apply?

• Full-time, long-term opportunity within a supportive SEN primary school in Wolverhampton.
• Work alongside experienced teaching and SEN professionals.
• The opportunity to make a genuine difference to children with SEMH needs.
• A rewarding role supporting pupils' emotional development, behaviour and engagement with education.
• Ongoing support from Smile Education throughout your placement.

If you have strong SEMH experience and are confident supporting primary-aged pupils with their behaviour, emotional regulation and wider social and emotional needs, we would love to hear from you.

REF: SM1TAM

Smile Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All applicants will be subject to appropriate safeguarding and compliance checks.

We are committed to safeguarding children. Each applicant will be expected to undertake compliance checks including Prohibited list, Barred list, DBS and Qualifications.