SEMH Teaching Assistant (trauma informed)

TeacherActive; Scarrington; On-site; GBP 13,000 - 18,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive PAYE

CPD access via My-Progression

£100 referral bonus

Dedicated consultant support

Guaranteed Payment Scheme

Job summary

TeacherActive is partnering with a specialist therapeutic school in NG13 to recruit a dedicated SEMH Specialist Teaching Assistant. The role involves 1:1 and small group support for pupils with SEMH needs, within a nurturing and therapeutic learning environment.

Ideal candidates will have SEMH experience and a passion for helping pupils engage with education, including outdoor and nature-based learning activities, with ongoing CPD support from TeacherActive.

Qualifications

• Experience with SEMH, SEND, or challenging behaviour.
• Strong behaviour management and de-escalation skills.
• Trauma-informed practice (desirable).
• Patient, resilient, and empathetic approach.
• Experience in schools, PRUs, or care settings (desirable).
• Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection.
• Committed to supporting SEMH pupils.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small group support for pupils with SEMH needs.
• Support emotional regulation, resilience, and self-management strategies.
• Manage and de-escalate challenging behaviour using a therapeutic approach.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils as a consistent role model.
• Support outdoor and nature-based learning activities.
• Encourage positive peer interactions and social skills development.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, and external professionals.

Education

Qualified Teaching Assistant

Job description

SEMH Specialist Teaching Assistant Therapeutic School
NG13
Full-Time Term Time Only Monday to Friday
Competitive Daily Rate PAYE

TeacherActive is proud to be working with a specialist therapeutic school in NG13, supporting pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. This nurturing, structured, and relationship-focused environment uses therapeutic and outdoor learning approaches to help pupils overcome challenges and re-engage with education.

We are seeking a dedicated SEMH Specialist Teaching Assistant to provide 1:1 and small group support. This role is ideal for a Teaching Assistant with experience in SEMH, alternative provision, or care settings, passionate about making a real difference.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small group support for pupils with SEMH needs as a Teaching Assistant
• Support emotional regulation, resilience, and self-management strategies
• Manage and de-escalate challenging behaviour using a therapeutic approach
• Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils as a consistent role model
• Support outdoor and nature-based learning activities
• Encourage positive peer interactions and social skills development
• Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, and external professionals as a Teaching Assistant

Requirements

• Experience working with children or young people with SEMH, SEND, or challenging behaviour
• Strong behaviour management and de-escalation skills
• Understanding of trauma-informed practice (desirable)
• Patient, resilient, and empathetic approach
• Experience in schools, PRUs, alternative provisions, or care settings (desirable)
• Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection
• A qualified or experienced Teaching Assistant committed to supporting SEMH pupils

Benefits

• Competitive PAYE pay (no umbrella or hidden deductions)
• Ongoing support from a dedicated TeacherActive consultant
• Access to CPD and training via My-Progression
• Guaranteed Payment Scheme (T&Cs apply)
• £100 referral bonus (T&Cs apply)
• 24/7 support from our experienced team
• Opportunity to grow and develop as a Teaching Assistant in a therapeutic setting

Ideal for candidates with experience as a Teaching Assistant, Behaviour Mentor, Youth Worker, Support Worker, or SEMH Specialist.

OTHER INFORMATION

About TeacherActive

TeacherActive is one of the UK s leading education recruitment agencies, with over 20 years of experience supporting schools and education professionals. We place teachers and support staff into a wide range of temporary, contract and permanent roles, helping candidates find rewarding opportunities that suit their experience, availability and career goals. We pride ourselves on providing an excellent service to both our schools and candidates.

Equal Opportunities Statement

TeacherActive is an equal opportunities employer and operates as an Employment Business and Employment Agency in providing temporary, contract and permanent job seeking services.

Safeguarding and DBS Compliance

TeacherActive is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Safeguarding is central to our recruitment practices, and we expect all applicants to share this commitment. All applicants are subject to thorough vetting and safer recruitment checks before being cleared to work.