SEMH Teaching Assistant

Lift Wishmore; Woking; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive training

Generous benefits

Discounted gym memberships

Travel deals

Job summary

Lift Wishmore is seeking a SEMH Teaching Assistant to help students access a high-quality education in a supportive classroom. You will work alongside teachers to encourage participation, develop independent learning skills and build a positive, safe environment where every student feels valued.

We welcome applicants with GCSEs in English and Maths (or a plan to work towards functional skills). No long experience required—values, patience and a willingness to learn matter most, with a Level 3

Qualifications

• GCSEs in English and Maths or working towards functional skills.
• Good communication and teamwork are valued.
• Willingness to learn and develop in a SEMH setting.

Responsibilities

• Support students to access lesson content and achieve learning goals.
• Plan, assess learning with teachers and guide individual or small group sessions.
• Help students build independent learning skills and manage their own progress.
• Create positive relationships and support wellbeing, behaviour and personal care.
• Work with staff, parents and carers to achieve the best outcomes for each student.
• Contribute to preparing resources, trips and activities for diverse needs.

Skills

Communication skills

Empathy

Patience

Calm under pressure

IT skills

Understanding of child development

Education

GCSEs English & Maths

Job description

Are you ready to make a real difference in young people's learning? We're looking for a SEMH Teaching Assistant to join Lift Wishmore and help every student access an excellent education.

About the role

You'll work alongside teachers to support students' learning, helping them participate fully in lessons and develop skills they can use independently. Your role will focus on understanding each student's needs and creating the right conditions for them to succeed. You'll also help build a positive and safe classroom where everyone feels valued. Could this be the role where you truly make an impact?

Key responsibilities

• Support students to access lesson content and achieve learning goals
• Work with teachers to plan and assess learning, and guide individual or small group sessions
• Help students build independent learning skills and manage their own progress
• Create positive relationships and support wellbeing, behaviour and personal care
• Work with teaching staff, parents and carers to achieve the best outcomes for every student
• Contribute to preparing resources, trips and activities that meet diverse needs

We are looking for someone who

You don't need years of experience, but you do need the right values. We're looking for someone with good communication skills and a reflective approach to learning. You'll be patient, empathetic, and calm under pressure. IT skills and a basic understanding of child development are helpful, but we can support you to build these if needed. What matters most is your willingness to learn and grow with us.

Do you have GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths, or are you willing to work towards functional skills? Can you work collaboratively as a trusted team member?

What we offer

• Level 3 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship for those working 20+ hours per week (if you don't already hold this qualification)
• Future progression routes including Level 5 apprenticeships and Initial Teacher Training
• A supportive team culture where ideas are shared openly and feedback is valued
• Opportunities to build your skills and confidence in a meaningful role
• A workplace that values diversity and welcomes people from all backgrounds

About Lift Wishmore

Lift Wishmore is a special school in Chobham, Surrey for boys aged 7 to 16 years who have social, emotional and mental health difficulties.We can admit up to 82 pupils which means that class sizes are small and we work very closely with our students to ensure they get the most out of each day with us. Set in beautiful grounds, we provide high quality CPD to all staff routed through the instructional excellence model.

Who is Lift Schools?

We're a diverse and inclusive network of schools with one clear mission; to provide an excellent education to every child - in every classroom, every day. And we do this across each of our 62 schools. As with our students, we want our team to be empowered to do their best work, supported by the best leadership they've ever had.

We acknowledge and appreciate the exceptional efforts of everyone here in making this an incredible organisation.

We offer you:

• Comprehensive training: Access a wide range of developmental training to boost your career.
• Generous benefits: From your pension plan to healthcare and financial support, we've got you covered.
• Lifestyle perks: Enjoy discounted gym memberships and travel deals.