SEMH Teaching Assistant

GSL Education; Manchester; On-site; GBP 18,450 - 22,140; Full time

Job summary

GSL Education are seeking a dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistant to support pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs in a Manchester primary setting. The role focuses on nurturing confidence, resilience and positive behaviours to help children engage with learning.

You will provide one-to-one support, run small-group interventions, and work closely with teachers, SENCo and external specialists to maintain a stable, supportive routine.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience supporting children with social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH).
• Demonstrated empathy, patience and resilience when working with pupils.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-to-one support to pupils needing emotional regulation and behavioural guidance.
• Create a safe space and implement positive behaviour plans.
• Lead small-group interventions to build social skills and self-esteem.
• Collaborate with class teachers, SENCo and external specialists to maintain a consistent routine.

Skills

SEMH experience

Empathy

Patience

Resilience

Team collaboration

Education

Enhanced DBS clearance

Job description

• Location: Manchester (M22 area - Wythenshawe / Northenden)

• Role Type: Full-time, Long-term (Term-time only)

• Start Date: September 2026

• Salary: £100 - £120 per day (dependent on experience)

Are you passionate about making a real difference in a child's life? Do you have a calm, patient, and resilient nature?

An inclusive, supportive primary school in the M22 area is looking for a dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistant to join their close-knit team. This role is focused on supporting children who face social, emotional, and mental health challenges, helping them build confidence, manage their emotions, and engage happily with their learning.

What the Role Involves

• One-to-One Support: Working closely with specific pupils who need extra support managing their emotions and behaviors in and out of the classroom.

• Creating a Safe Space: Designing and implementing positive behavior plans, helping children de-escalate when they feel overwhelmed.

• Building Confidence: Running small-group interventions focused on social skills, self-esteem, and emotional regulation.

• Collaboration: Working hand-in-hand with the class teachers, SENCo, and external specialists to ensure the pupils have a consistent, supportive routine.

Essential Requirements

• Proven SEMH Experience: You must have hands‑on experience supporting children or young people with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health needs (such as ADHD, anxiety, trauma, or attachment difficulties).

• Enhanced DBS Check: You must hold a valid Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or be willing to apply for a new one immediately).

• Naturally Empathetic & Patient: You understand that "challenging behavior" is often communication, and you approach pupils with kindness and curiosity.

• Resilient & Adaptable: No two days are the same, and you can stay calm under pressure.

Why Join This School

• A Supportive Environment: A leadership team that genuinely prioritizes staff well‑being and offers continuous professional development (CPD) and training.