SEMH Teaching Assistant

Academics Ltd; Milehouse; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading education support organization is looking for a Specialist SEMH / SEN Teaching Assistant based in St Albans. This full-time role, starting in January, involves providing dedicated 1:1 support for a KS2 pupil. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with educational professionals to implement tailored support strategies, addressing the child's unique behavioral and emotional needs. Ideal applicants will be empathetic, patient, and experienced in supporting children with SEMH challenges to create a positive and effective learning environment.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children with SEMH, PDA, ASD, or related needs.
• Strong behavior regulation and de-escalation skills.
• Patient, empathetic, and creatively adaptive.

Responsibilities

• Provide consistent 1:1 support for a KS2 student with SEMH.
• Build trusting relationships to help the child access learning.
• Implement strategies to support emotional regulation and engagement.

Skills

Supporting children with SEMH

Behaviour regulation

De-escalation skills

Creativity under pressure

Job description

We are seeking a compassionate, experienced, and resilient Specialist Teaching Assistant to provide 1:1 support for a KS2 pupil with emerging SEMH needs and possible PDA. This is a full-time position starting in January, working within a supportive mainstream primary setting.

Role: Specialist SEMH / SEN Teaching Assistant

Location: St Albans

Contract: Full Time, Long-Term

Although the pupil does not currently have an EHCP, a tailored support plan is already in place, developed collaboratively with the SENDCo and Senior Leadership Team. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in implementing this plan and adapting provision to meet the child's evolving needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide consistent 1:1 support for a KS2 student with SEMH and potential PDA profile
• Build a trusting, positive relationship to help the child access learning
• Implement strategies to support emotional regulation, engagement, and communication
• Work closely with the SENDCo, class teacher and SLT to deliver personalised interventions
• Support the creation of a calm, predictable environment, using a flexible and child-led approach
• Monitor progress and contribute to ongoing reviews of the student's support plan

Ideal Candidate

• Experience supporting children with SEMH, PDA, ASD or related needs
• Strong behaviour regulation and de‑escalation skills
• Patient, empathetic, and able to think creatively under pressure
• Able to follow guidance while also adapting strategies in the moment
• Committed to safeguarding and inclusive practice

This role would suit someone passionate about making a meaningful difference to a child's school experience, with the resilience and skill to support a learner who may find the classroom environment challenging.

If you are dedicated, nurturing and ready for a rewarding challenge, we would love to hear from you.

Get in touch with our Hertfordshire office based in Berkhamsted and quote "SEMH Teaching Assistant, St Albans".