SEMH Teaching Assistant - Wokingham

Academics; Wokingham; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 19,000; Full time

Job summary

Academics Ltd in Wokingham is seeking a dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistant to start ASAP. The role focuses on supporting students with social, emotional and mental health needs within a specialist school environment.

You will provide 1:1 and small-group support, help pupils recognise and manage emotions, and reinforce positive behaviour with de-escalation techniques. A psychology, criminology or sociology background is welcomed; prior experience in youth work or mental health support is

Qualifications

• Experience supporting SEMH or mental health needs.
• 1:1 and small-group support experience.
• Patience, resilience and calm under pressure.
• Willingness to work with challenging behaviours and emotions.
• Experience in youth work, residential care or education is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support to SEMH pupils.
• Help pupils recognise and manage their emotions.
• Support positive behaviour through consistent strategies.
• Use de-escalation techniques when needed.
• Foster positive social interactions and relationships.
• Collaborate with teachers, pastoral staff and external professionals.
• Contribute to a calm, structured classroom environment.

Skills

1:1 support

Small-group support

De-escalation

Emotional regulation

Relationship building

Education

Psychology degree

Criminology degree

Sociology degree

Job description

SEMH Teaching Assistant

Location: Wokingham

Start Date: ASAP

Pay: £90 - £105 per day

Are you passionate about supporting young people with social, emotional and mental health needs? Do you have the resilience and understanding to help children manage challenging emotions and develop positive relationships?

A specialist school in Wokingham is seeking a committed SEMH Teaching Assistant to join its team as soon as possible. This is an excellent opportunity to work with pupils who may experience emotional regulation difficulties, challenging behaviour, anxiety and barriers to accessing mainstream education.

As an SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will provide tailored support to pupils who need additional guidance throughout the school day. You will help create a calm and structured environment, build trusting relationships and encourage students to develop the confidence and skills needed to engage positively with education.

• Providing 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with SEMH needs
• Helping students recognise and manage their emotions
• Supporting positive behaviour through consistent strategies and reinforcement
• Using appropriate de-escalation techniques when challenging situations arise
• Encouraging positive social interactions and relationship-building
• Helping pupils develop resilience, confidence and independence
• Working closely with teachers, pastoral staff and external professionals

The ideal candidate will be approachable, patient and confident in managing challenging situations. Previous experience in youth work, mental health support, residential care, mentoring, sports coaching or specialist education would be highly beneficial.

This SEMH Teaching Assistant opportunity would be particularly suitable for Psychology, Criminology and Sociology graduates looking to gain valuable experience before pursuing careers in educational psychology, counselling, youth work or mental health services.

You will be joining a supportive team where you can develop your understanding of SEMH, behaviour management and inclusive education while making a meaningful difference to pupils' lives.

SEMH Teaching Assistant - Wokingham - Mental Health - Behaviour Support - Specialist Education - ASAP Start

Salary will be determined by the successful candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, and will be in accordance with the client's pay policy