SEMH Teaching Assistant

Tradewind Recruitment LTD.; West of England, Cheltenham; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 19,000; Full time

Job summary

Tradewind Recruitment LTD in South Bristol is seeking a dedicated Teaching Assistant to support pupils across Primary and Secondary in a specialist SEMH setting. The role focuses on 1:1 support, small groups, and helping students develop confidence and social skills.

You will work closely with teachers and pastoral staff, with a nurturing, therapeutic approach to enable every pupil to reach their potential. Enhanced DBS and right to work in the UK are required.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children or young people in education, care, or youth work.
• Calm, patient and resilient with genuine passion for learners.
• Ability to build positive relationships and work in a team.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils 1:1 and in small groups.
• Build positive relationships and promote emotional regulation.
• Support learning, behaviour and social development.
• Collaborate with teachers and pastoral staff.
• Work across Primary and Secondary settings.

Skills

Experience with children

Calm and patient

Team player

Job description

Teaching Assistant - SEMH School (Primary & Secondary) South Bristol (BS4)

Location: South Bristol (BS4)
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 3:30pm (Term Time Only)
Pay: 90- 105 per day (PAYE)
Contract: Full-time, Long-term with the potential to become permanent
Start Date: September 2026 / ASAP

Tradewind Recruitment are working with a well-established specialist SEMH school in South Bristol to recruit compassionate and resilient Teaching Assistants to support pupils across both Primary and Secondary age groups.

This specialist setting supports children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, alongside additional needs including Autism (ASD), ADHD, attachment difficulties and trauma-related behaviours. The school is known for its nurturing, therapeutic approach and commitment to helping every pupil reach their full potential.

The Role

As a Teaching Assistant, you will:

• Support pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with young people.
• Help pupils develop confidence, emotional regulation and independence.
• Support learning, behaviour and social development.
• Work closely with teachers and the wider pastoral team across both Primary and Secondary settings.

We're looking for someone who:

• Has experience working with children or young people in education, care, youth work, coaching or similar.
• Is calm, patient and resilient.
• Has a genuine passion for supporting young people with additional needs.
• Can build strong relationships and work effectively as part of a team.

Requirements

• Enhanced DBS (or willingness to apply).
• Right to work in the UK.
• Two recent professional references.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join one of South Bristol's leading specialist education settings, where you'll make a genuine difference to the lives of children and young people every day.