SEMH Teaching Assistant - Walsall

Tradewind Recruitment LTD.; Walsall; On-site; GBP 13,000 - 18,000; Full time

Job summary

Tradewind Recruitment LTD. is seeking a compassionate Specialist Teaching Assistant to join a primary school in Walsall, supporting pupils with diverse needs. The role involves 1:1 and small-group support, fostering inclusion and helping children access education.

You will work closely with teachers and SENCOs, adapting approaches to individual learning and behaviour, and contributing to a safe, supportive learning environment with opportunities for temporary to permanent progression.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting primary-aged pupils with SEND or additional needs.
• Ability to support children with Autism, SEMH, ADHD and communication difficulties.
• Patient, empathetic and adaptable approach to individual pupil needs.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support to primary-aged pupils with additional needs.
• Support pupils with a range of SEND, including Autism, SEMH, ADHD and communication difficulties.
• Adapt approach to meet learning, emotional and behavioural needs.
• Help pupils develop communication, social skills and independence.
• Support emotional regulation and encourage positive behaviour through consistent strategies.
• Use de-escalation techniques when supporting pupils with challenging behaviour.
• Assist teachers in delivering engaging and accessible learning activities.
• Build positive relationships to help pupils feel safe and valued.
• Encourage participation in classroom activities and promote confidence in learning.
• Work with teachers and SENCOs to ensure consistent support.

Skills

1:1 support

Small-group support

SEND experience

Autism awareness

SEMH understanding

ADHD awareness

Behaviour management

Emotional regulation

Positive relationships

Team collaboration

Job description

Specialist Teaching Assistant - Primary SchoolLocation: Walsall, West MidlandsEmployer: Tradewind RecruitmentContract: Full-time, long-term, with potential temp-to-perm opportunitiesTradewind Recruitment is seeking a caring, dedicated and resilient Specialist Teaching Assistant to join a specialist school in Walsall, supporting primary-aged pupils with a range of additional needs. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of children who require additional support to access education. The school provides a nurturing, structured and inclusive environment, where pupils are supported to develop academically, socially and emotionally. The successful candidate will be confident supporting children with a range of special educational needs, potentially including Autism (ASC), Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, ADHD, communication difficulties and associated behavioural needs. You will play an important role in helping pupils overcome barriers to learning, develop independence and build positive relationships, ensuring every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support to primary-aged pupils with additional needs.
• Support children with a range of SEND, including Autism, SEMH, ADHD and communication difficulties.
• Adapt your approach to meet individual learning, emotional and behavioural needs.
• Help pupils develop communication, social skills and independence.
• Support emotional regulation and encourage positive behaviour through consistent strategies.
• Use appropriate de-escalation techniques when supporting pupils who may display challenging behaviour.
• Assist teachers in delivering engaging and accessible learning activities.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils, helping them feel safe, supported and valued.
• Encourage participation in classroom activities and promote confidence in learning.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs and other support staff to ensure pupils receive consistent support.
• Contribute to maintaining a safe, calm and positive learning environment.

About You

• Have previous experience working with children or young people with SEND or additional needs.
• Be confident supporting primary-aged pupils with a range of learning and behavioural needs.
• Have an understanding of Autism, SEMH, ADHD or other special educational needs.
• Be patient, empathetic and adaptable when responding to individual pupil needs.
• Have a good understanding of positive behaviour management and emotional regulation.
• Be confident supporting children who may struggle with communication, social interaction or emotional regulation.
• Remain calm and consistent when faced with challenging situations.
• Be passionate about helping children develop their confidence, independence and learning skills.
• Have a proactive, flexible and resilient approach to supporting pupils.
• Be committed to working as part of a wider school team.
• Have a full UK driving licence and access to their own vehicle.
• Be available to work full-time.
• Previous experience within a specialist school, SEN provision, alternative provision, residential childcare or a similar setting would be highly beneficial.

What Tradewind Can Offer You

• Competitive daily rates, dependent on experience.
• A full-time, long-term placement within a specialist school in Walsall.
• Potential for a permanent position through a temp-to-perm opportunity.
• Free CPD and professional development opportunities.
• Access to the National College after your first day of work.
• A dedicated consultant providing ongoing support throughout your placement.
• Opportunities to develop your skills and experience within specialist education.
• The chance to make a genuine difference to the lives of children with additional needs.