Teaching Assistant SEMH

Academic Appointments Ltd; Leeds; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Academic Appointments Ltd. are seeking compassionate SEMH Teaching Assistants to support children and young people with social, emotional and mental health needs in Leeds.

You will work closely with teaching staff and pastoral teams to help pupils feel safe, engaged and ready to learn in a nurturing environment. The role involves 1:1 and small-group support, implementing strategies set by professionals, promoting an inclusive classroom, and contributing to safeguarding and wellbeing across the

Qualifications

• Calm, patient and empathetic approach when working with children and young people.
• Ability to build trusting and respectful relationships.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Confidence in managing challenging behaviour in a positive and professional manner.
• Understanding of barriers to learning for SEMH pupils.
• Flexible and reliable, committed to inclusive practice.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support for pupils with SEMH needs.
• Support pupils to regulate emotions and engage with learning.
• Implement strategies set out by teachers and SENDCo.
• Promote a calm, safe, inclusive learning environment.
• Use positive behaviour support and de‑escalation strategies.
• Monitor progress, behaviour and wellbeing and provide feedback.
• Support pupils during transitions, breaktimes and busy times.
• Build professional relationships with pupils, families and colleagues.
• Contribute to safeguarding and pastoral support per policy.

Skills

Calm demeanour

Empathy

Strong communication

Teamwork

Education

Relevant TA qualification

Job description

SEMH Teaching Assistant

Academic Appointments are seeking compassionate, resilient and proactive SEMH Teaching Assistants to support children and young people with social, emotional and mental health needs at our specialist settings and partner schools in Leeds. This is a rewarding opportunity to work closely with teaching staff and pastoral teams to help pupils feel safe, engaged and ready to learn in a nurturing and structured environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support for pupils with SEMH needs.
• Support pupils to regulate emotions, develop positive relationships and engage with learning.
• Implement strategies set out by the class teacher, SENDCo and other relevant professionals.
• Promote a calm, safe and inclusive learning environment.
• Use positive behaviour support and de‑escalation strategies consistently and effectively.
• Monitor progress, behaviour and wellbeing, and provide feedback to teaching staff.
• Support pupils during transitions, breaktimes, and other less structured parts of the school day.
• Build strong, professional relationships with pupils, families, colleagues and external agencies where appropriate.
• Contribute to safeguarding, wellbeing and pastoral support in line with school policies.

Person Specification

• Calm, patient and empathetic approach when working with children and young people.
• Ability to build trusting and respectful relationships.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Confidence in managing challenging behaviour in a positive and professional manner.
• Understanding of the barriers to learning experienced by pupils with SEMH needs.
• Flexible, reliable and committed to inclusive practice.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
• A genuine passion for supporting children to achieve their potential.

Desirable Qualifications and Experience

• Previous experience working with children or young people with SEMH, SEND or additional needs.
• Experience in a school, alternative provision, youth work, care or support setting.
• Relevant Teaching Assistant or childcare qualification.
• Training in behaviour support, de‑escalation or trauma‑informed practice.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection procedures.

All roles require an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.