Teaching Assistant

SMART Education Recruitment; Shenstone; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A professional education recruitment agency is seeking a dedicated Teaching Assistant for a special school near Lichfield. This role emphasizes supporting students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs by providing personalized assistance to help them thrive in their learning environment. Candidates must be resilient, possess strong behaviour management skills, and commit to safeguarding pupil well-being. The position also offers competitive pay and tailored training opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Bespoke training

Holiday pay

Support from a consultant

Positive working environment

Qualifications

• Experience supporting students with SEMH needs, particularly with older learners.
• Strong behaviour management skills essential.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Awareness of curriculum and support across subjects.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting pupil wellbeing.

Responsibilities

• Provide tailored support to pupils to foster positive engagement with their learning.
• Work alongside teachers and pastoral staff for one-on-one support.
• Assist in small group interventions and emotional regulation support.

Skills

Experience supporting students with SEMH needs

Strong behaviour management skills

Ability to remain calm under pressure

Curriculum awareness

Friendly and pupil-focused approach

Commitment to safeguarding

Job description

Job Title: Teaching Assistant (SEMH Special School) – Location: Lichfield – Pay Rate: £93.18–£102.74 per day – Hours: Full Time – 32.5 hours

Smart Education is currently recruiting friendly, resilient and enthusiastic SEMH Teaching Assistants to join a supportive and growing team in a special school near Lichfield. This role involves working closely with pupils who have Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, including older students who may display behaviours that challenge.

About the Role

As a Teaching Assistant in an SEMH setting, you will provide tailored support to pupils to help them engage positively with their learning. Working alongside teachers and pastoral staff, your responsibilities will include one‑on‑one support, small group interventions, emotional regulation support, and helping pupils develop confidence, resilience and independence.

This setting is proud to hold a national award for Best Practice in Teaching Assistant Support, highlighting its commitment to recognising and developing TAs as valued and skilled professionals.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary
• Bespoke, high‑quality training tailored to your skill set and experience
• Holiday pay
• Support from a dedicated education consultant
• A warm, positive and highly supportive working environment
• Opportunities to visit the school and meet the senior leadership team prior to interview

Requirements

• Experience supporting students with SEMH needs, especially older learners
• Strong behaviour management skills
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and respond positively to challenging situations
• Curriculum awareness and the ability to support learning across subjects
• A friendly, resilient and pupil‑focused approach
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting pupil wellbeing

About Smart Education

Smart Education is a specialist recruitment agency for Education and Early Years, offering both permanent and temporary staffing solutions. We work with Teaching Assistants, SEN specialists, Teachers, Nursery Practitioners and Tutors across the Midlands.

We are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be required to complete the following checks: enhanced DBS check, online checks in line with KCSIE 2024, and satisfactory references prior to interview. By applying, shortlisted candidates consent to an online search as part of the Safer Recruitment process.

If you are passionate about supporting pupils with SEMH needs and want to join a forward‑thinking, supportive team, apply now for this permanent position near Lichfield.

Closing Date: 12:00 noon, Friday 23rd January 2026