SEN teaching assistant

TipTopJob; West Yorkshire; On-site; GBP 16,000 - 18,000; Full time

Job summary

TipTopJob is seeking a SEN Teaching Assistant to support pupils with SEMH in a South Leeds primary school. You will provide tailored 1:1 support to Key Stage 1 and 2 pupils, helping create a calm, structured learning environment and building rapport to boost engagement and wellbeing.

The role requires empathy, patience, and resilience, with duties including behaviour management, collaboration with teachers and the SENCo, and assisting with IEPs and behavioural plans.

Qualifications

• Experience with SEMH, ADHD, ASC, or complex behavioural needs.
• Training in Team Teach or MAPA is desirable.
• GCSEs English and Maths (A*-C / 4-9) required or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Deliver 1:1 support to designated pupils inside and outside the classroom.
• Use de-escalation strategies to help pupils self-regulate.
• Build strong rapport with pupils to boost confidence and wellbeing.
• Collaborate with class teachers, the SENCo, and external specialists to implement IEPs and behavioural plans.
• Facilitate small-group or sensory breakout sessions when pupils need time away from the main classroom.
• Safeguard pupils wellbeing in line with school policies and statutory guidance.

Skills

1:1 support

de-escalation

emotional intelligence

collaboration

SEN experience

Education

Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant

Degree in Psychology or Education

GCSE English & Maths

Job description

Are you passionate about making a genuine difference in a childs 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: GBP85 : GBP100 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.