SEMH Teaching Assistant – Pupil Referral Unit (PRU)

Link Education Ltd; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An educational recruitment agency is seeking a Teaching Assistant in Orpington to support learners in a Pupil Referral Unit. The role involves working closely with pupils facing social and emotional challenges. Ideal candidates should have experience in similar settings and excellent communication skills. The position offers competitive pay and opportunities for career development.

Benefits

Competitive rates of pay

Ongoing support from a dedicated consultant

Opportunities for CPD and career development

Qualifications

• Previous experience working in a PRU, SEMH school or alternative provision (desirable).
• Current Enhanced DBS, or willingness to apply for one through Link Education.

Responsibilities

• Support the planning and delivery of engaging, differentiated lessons.
• Work 1:1 and with small groups of pupils with SEMH needs.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils.
• Work collaboratively with teachers and external agencies.
• Assist with monitoring pupil progress.

Skills

Strong behaviour management

Excellent communication skills

Calm and patient approach

Empathetic towards young people

Job description

Location: Orpington

Start Date: ASAP

Contract Type: Temporary / Long-term / Permanent

Salary: Competitive (based on experience) + SEN allowance where applicable

About the Role

Link Education is seeking an experienced, resilient and enthusiastic Teaching Assistant to support learners within a Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) based in Orpington. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone passionate about helping young people with additional needs re‑engage with education.

You will support small groups and individual pupils who may have faced barriers to learning due to social, emotional or behavioural challenges. The successful candidate will help create a calm, structured and supportive environment where every pupil feels safe, understood and motivated to succeed.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the planning and delivery of engaging, differentiated lessons.
• Work 1:1 and with small groups of pupils with SEMH needs and/or behavioural difficulties.
• Build positive, trusting relationships and model high expectations of behaviour.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, pastoral teams and external agencies.
• Assist with monitoring pupil progress and adapting support as required.

Requirements

• Previous experience working in a PRU, SEMH school or alternative provision (desirable).
• Strong behaviour management and excellent communication skills.
• A calm, patient and empathetic approach to supporting young people.
• A willingness to work as part of a team and respond flexibly to pupil needs.
• Current Enhanced DBS, or willingness to apply for one through Link Education.

Why Register with Link Education

• Competitive rates of pay.
• A dedicated consultant offering ongoing support and guidance.
• Opportunities for CPD and career development.
• Access to a wide range of specialist and mainstream roles.

Interested

Apply today by sending your CV to [e-mail] or call 01689 878 565 for a confidential discussion about the role.