SEN teaching assistant

Randstad UK; Leeds; On-site; GBP 16,000 - 18,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Term-time contract

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Randstad UK is recruiting a dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant (SEMH Focus) to support pupils with SEMH needs in a South Leeds primary school. You will provide tailored 1:1 support to pupils in Key Stage 1 and 2, helping them engage with learning in a calm, structured environment.

With strong de-escalation skills and empathy, you will work closely with class teachers and the SENCo to implement IEPs and behavioural plans.

Qualifications

• Experience with SEMH, ADHD or ASC in educational settings.
• Ability to implement and adapt IEPs and behaviour plans.
• GCSEs in English and Maths; Level 2/3 TA qualification or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Deliver 1:1 support to pupils inside and outside the classroom.
• Use de-escalation strategies to help pupils self-regulate.
• Collaborate with teachers, SENCo, and specialists on IEPs.
• Run small-group or sensory sessions as needed.
• Safeguard pupils in line with school policies.

Skills

De-escalation

Empathy

Patience

Behaviour management

Education

Level 2/3 TA

GCSE English/Maths

Tools

MAPA training

Team-Teach

Job description

Are you passionate about making a genuine difference in a child's educational journey?

Do you have the patience, empathy, and resilience to support pupils facing emotional and behavioural challenges?

Are you looking for a rewarding role where no two days are the same within a supportive primary school in South Leeds?

SEN Teaching Assistant (SEMH Focus - 1:1 Support)

Location: South Leeds (LS10 / LS11 area)

Contract: Full-Time, Term Time Only

Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Salary / Daily Rate: £85 - £100 per day (dependent on experience)

Start Date: ASAP

About the Role

A welcoming and inclusive primary school in South Leeds is seeking a dedicated and proactive

Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistant.

In this role, you will provide tailored

1:1 support to Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 pupils with

Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. You will be instrumental in creating a calm, structured environment where pupils feel safe, understood, and motivated to engage with learning.

Key Responsibilities

Deliver consistent, empathetic 1:1 support to designated pupils inside and outside the classroom.

Use positive behaviour management and de-escalation strategies to help pupils self-regulate.

Build strong rapport with pupils to boost their confidence, emotional wellbeing, and social communication.

Work collaboratively with class teachers, the school SENCo, and external specialists to implement Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and behavioural support plans.

Facilitate small-group or sensory breakout sessions when pupils require time away from the main classroom.

Safeguard pupils' wellbeing in line with school policies and statutory guidance.

Who We Are Looking For

Experience: Previous experience working with children or young people with SEMH, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), or complex behavioural needs (in a school, youth work, or care setting).

Skills: Strong de-escalation skills, calm under pressure, and a solution-focused mindset. Training in Team-Teach or MAPA is desirable, though not essential.

Attributes: High levels of emotional intelligence, patience, consistency, and a non-judgmental approach.

Qualifications: Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant qualification, degree in Psychology/Education, or equivalent relevant experience. GCSEs (A*-C / 4-9) in English and Maths.