SEMH Teaching Assistant

Balfor Recruitment Group; City Of London; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Balfor Education is seeking enthusiastic SEN Teaching Assistants to join a specialist school in West Wickham, supporting pupils with SEMH, SLCN and Autism. You will work with teachers to make learning accessible and build pupils' confidence within a safe, nurturing environment.

Ideal candidates will have experience in SEN settings, strong teamwork and a patient approach, and will support pupils with IEP targets while upholding safeguarding standards.

Qualifications

• Experience in SEN/SEND or specialist education is desirable.
• Experience supporting pupils with Autism, SEMH, ADHD and/or communication needs is advantageous.
• A patient, resilient and nurturing approach.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to follow individual support plans and work under direction of teaching staff.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils with Autism, SEMH and SLCN in the classroom and throughout the school day.
• Work closely with teachers to deliver engaging and accessible learning activities.
• Provide individual and small-group support tailored to pupils' needs and learning targets.
• Promote positive behaviour using appropriate behaviour management and de‑escalation strategies.
• Help pupils develop communication, social skills, confidence and independence.
• Support pupils during outdoor learning, breaktimes and other school activities where required.
• Maintain a safe, inclusive environment and follow safeguarding procedures.

Skills

Patience

Teamwork

Communication

Behaviour support

Job description

SEN Teaching Assistant

About the School

Balfor Education is seeking enthusiastic and dedicated SEN Teaching Assistants to join a specialist school in West Wickham, supporting pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN), and Autism.

The school provides modern learning facilities for pupils aged 5-19, offering a supportive, inclusive and engaging environment where young people are encouraged to develop academically, socially and emotionally. Facilities include outdoor learning areas, sensory spaces, a basketball court and dedicated play areas designed to promote independence, wellbeing and positive engagement.

The Role

As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you will work alongside teachers and the wider school team to support pupils with additional needs, helping them access learning, develop confidence and build positive relationships.

You will play an important role in creating a safe, structured and nurturing environment where pupils feel supported and encouraged to reach their full potential.

Key Responsibilities

• Support pupils with Autism, SEMH and SLCN in the classroom and throughout the school day.
• Work closely with teachers to deliver engaging and accessible learning activities.
• Provide individual and small-group support tailored to pupils' needs and learning targets.
• Promote positive behaviour using appropriate behaviour management and de-escalation strategies.
• Help pupils develop communication, social skills, confidence and independence.
• Support pupils with emotional regulation and engagement in learning.
• Assist with implementing individual education plans and EHCP targets.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils and staff.
• Support pupils during outdoor learning, breaktimes and other school activities where required.
• Maintain a safe, inclusive environment and follow safeguarding procedures.

Requirements

• Previous experience working within an SEN/SEND or specialist education setting is desirable.
• Experience supporting pupils with Autism, SEMH, ADHD and/or communication needs is advantageous.
• A patient, resilient and nurturing approach.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Confidence supporting pupils with behavioural, emotional and additional learning needs.
• Ability to follow individual support plans and work under the direction of teaching staff.
• A genuine passion for supporting children and young people to achieve their potential.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

Safeguarding & Compliance

• An enhanced DBS check is required, registered on the DBS Update Service, or applicants must be willing to obtain a new enhanced DBS check.
• References must cover a minimum of two years, including the most recent employer.
• All applicants must demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

About Balfor Education

Balfor Education is a UK education recruitment agency specialising in supplying teachers, SEN specialists and support staff to schools and educational settings. We connect dedicated education professionals with opportunities where they can make a meaningful difference to pupils' learning, development and wellbeing.

Safeguarding Commitment

Balfor Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment, and all appointments are subject to the appropriate safeguarding and compliance checks