SEMH Teaching Assistant (TA)

GUARDIAN SELECTION LIMITED; Barnsley; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency for education in Barnsley seeks a committed SEMH Teaching Assistant. The role involves providing emotional and behavioural support to pupils. Candidates should possess strong communication skills, be patient and resilient, and have experience with SEMH needs. This position offers competitive daily rates and flexible placements.

Benefits

Competitive daily rates, paid weekly

Flexible placements

Support from dedicated consultants

Opportunities for professional development

Qualifications

• Experience working with children with SEMH needs is desirable.
• An enhanced DBS registered on the Update Service or willingness to apply.
• A CV covering the last 10 years of employment history.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small group support for pupils with SEMH needs.
• Implement strategies to support emotional regulation and behaviour.
• Build strong, trusting relationships with pupils.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

De-escalation skills

Resilience

Patience

Job description

SEMH Teaching Assistant (TA)

Location: Barnsley
Pay Rate: £85 – £110 per day (depending on experience)
Start Date: Immediate
Contract Type: Day-to-day / Long-term | Full-time / Part-time

Are you passionate about supporting children with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs to thrive academically and emotionally?

GSL Education is seeking a committed SEMH Teaching Assistant to join a supportive school in Barnsley. As an SEMH TA, you will work closely with pupils requiring additional emotional and behavioural support, helping them engage positively in learning and develop confidence and resilience.

Key Responsibilities as an SEMH Teaching Assistant:

• Provide 1:1 and small group support for pupils with SEMH needs.
• Implement strategies to support emotional regulation, behaviour, and social development.
• Build strong, trusting relationships with pupils to foster engagement and confidence.
• Collaborate with teaching staff, SENCOs, parents, and external agencies to ensure cohesive support.
• Assist with classroom organisation and resource preparation to create a safe, inclusive learning environment.

Requirements for SEMH Teaching Assistant:

• Experience working with children with SEMH needs is desirable.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and de‑escalation skills.
• Patient, resilient, and understanding in challenging situations.
• An enhanced DBS registered on the Update Service (or willingness to apply).
• A CV covering the last 10 years of employment history, with any gaps explained.

What GSL Education Offers:

• Competitive daily rates, paid weekly.
• Flexible placements to suit your availability.
• Support from dedicated consultants with strong local school connections.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.

Please be advised that this role requires strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection and that successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks; including providing an enhanced DBS certificate registered on the update service, or completing an application for a new check.

As an ethical, inclusive and independent recruitment agency, GSL Education is committed to providing quality teaching and support staff in schools across the UK.

To apply for the role of SEMH Teaching Assistant, please click ‘apply now’ and submit your CV. One of our consultants will be in touch with you shortly.

Senior Education Consultant, South Yorkshire