SEMH Teaching Assistants

Tradewind Recruitment; Canterbury; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency in the UK is looking for SEMH Teaching Assistants to support secondary-aged students with mental health needs in Canterbury. This full-time role involves working closely with students and teachers, managing behaviour, and building positive relationships. Candidates must demonstrate resilience and strong behaviour management skills. Competitive pay and ongoing professional development opportunities are offered.

Benefits

Competitive daily rates

Access to CPD-accredited courses

Dedicated consultant support

Qualifications

• Prior experience as a Behaviour Support Assistant or Teaching Assistant in a SEN setting is desirable.
• Ability to demonstrate strong behaviour management skills.
• Must have the right to work in the UK and be willing to obtain an enhanced DBS.

Responsibilities

• Support students on a 1:1 or small group basis.
• Manage and de-escalate behavioural incidents.
• Build positive relationships with pupils.

Skills

Behaviour management

Emotional resilience

Calm, non-confrontational manner

Education

L2 or L3 Teaching Assistant qualification

Job description

SEMH Teaching Assistant - SEN School in Canterbury

Full-time - 90 per day - ASAP start - Monday to Friday

If you are passionate about supporting secondary-aged young people who need the most encouragement and guidance, and thrive in a challenging but rewarding environment, this could be the role for you.

Tradewind Recruitment are currently seeking resilient and committed SEMH Teaching Assistants to join one of various SEN Schools in Canterbury that cater for children with mental health needs.

The Role

• Supporting students on a 1:1 or small group basis with needs including SEMH, ASD, ADHD, and challenging behaviour.
• Managing and de‑escalating behavioural incidents with confidence and professionalism.
• Building positive relationships with pupils who may have experienced trauma, exclusion, or unstable home environments.
• Working closely with Teachers, SLT, and external agencies to support student progress and wellbeing.
• Participating in relevant CPD, including Behaviour Management and Trauma‑Informed Practice training.

Requirements

• Prior experience as a Behaviour Support Assistant, Teaching Assistant, or working in a pastoral/intervention SEN setting is highly desirable.
• L2 or L3 Teaching Assistant qualification is desirable but not essential.
• You must be able to demonstrate strong behaviour management skills, emotional resilience, and a calm, non‑confrontational manner.
• Must have the right to work in the UK and be willing to obtain an enhanced DBS (child‑only) on the update service or be willing to get a new one. A new DBS costs 62 and we will pay you back the 62 once you complete 20 days of work for us.

Why work with Tradewind Recruitment?

• Competitive daily rates and transparent pay.
• Ongoing access to over 2,500 CPD‑accredited courses through The National College.
• A dedicated and experienced consultant supporting you every step of the way.
• A reliable and knowledgeable compliance team ensuring smooth onboarding and continued support.

If you're ready to support young people in a setting where your presence and consistency can change lives, apply today to join a forward‑thinking and supportive team in Canterbury.