Teaching Assistant SEND/SEMH

New-Directions-1; Leeds; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 21,000; Full time

Job summary

New Directions Group is seeking dedicated Teaching Assistants to work in mainstream primary and secondary schools across Bradford and surrounding areas, providing tailored 1:1 support to pupils with SEND and SEMH needs. You will help them access learning, build confidence, and reach their potential within a supportive school environment.

The role involves collaboration with teachers, SENCOs, pastoral teams, and external professionals to deliver individualized support, promote inclusion, and

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children or young people with SEND and/or SEMH needs.
• Experience working within schools, alternative provisions, residential care, youth work, support work, or similar settings.
• A strong understanding of positive behaviour management and trauma-informed approaches.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• A patient, resilient, and nurturing attitude.
• The ability to remain calm under pressure and respond positively to challenging situations.
• A genuine desire to support vulnerable pupils and help them succeed both academically and personally.

Responsibilities

• Provide dedicated 1:1 support to pupils with SEND and SEMH needs within mainstream classroom settings.
• Build positive, trusting relationships that encourage confidence, engagement, and emotional wellbeing.
• Support pupils in achieving targets outlined in EHCPs, Individual Learning Plans, and Behaviour Support Plans.
• Assist teachers in adapting learning activities to meet individual pupil needs.
• Implement positive behaviour strategies and use effective de-escalation techniques when required.
• Support pupils with emotional regulation, social interaction, and developing independence.
• Deliver targeted interventions and structured support activities under the guidance of teaching staff.
• Monitor and record pupil progress, behaviour, and wellbeing, providing feedback to relevant school staff.
• Promote inclusion and ensure pupils can fully access the curriculum and wider school life.

Skills

SEND & SEMH support

Positive behaviour management

Trauma-informed approaches

Excellent communication skills

Calm under pressure

Patient, resilient, nurturing

Job description

We are currently seeking dedicated and compassionate Teaching Assistants to work within mainstream primary and secondary schools across Bradford and the surrounding areas. This rewarding role involves providing tailored 1:1 support to pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, helping them to access learning, build confidence, and achieve their full potential.

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who are committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of young people and creating positive educational experiences for those who face barriers to learning.

We Would Love to Hear From You If You Have:

• Experience supporting children or young people with SEND and/or SEMH needs.
• Previous experience working within schools, alternative provisions, residential care, youth work, support work, or similar settings.
• A strong understanding of positive behaviour management and trauma-informed approaches.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• A patient, resilient, and nurturing attitude.
• The ability to remain calm under pressure and respond positively to challenging situations.
• A genuine desire to support vulnerable pupils and help them succeed both academically and personally.

The Role

Working as a SEND & SEMH Teaching Assistant is both challenging and highly rewarding. You will play a vital role in supporting pupils who require additional assistance to engage with learning, manage their emotions, and develop positive relationships within the school environment.

You will work closely with teachers, SENCOs, pastoral teams, and external professionals to deliver individualised support that promotes inclusion, wellbeing, and educational progress.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide dedicated 1:1 support to pupils with SEND and SEMH needs within mainstream classroom settings.
• Build positive, trusting relationships that encourage confidence, engagement, and emotional wellbeing.
• Support pupils in achieving targets outlined in EHCPs, Individual Learning Plans, and Behaviour Support Plans.
• Assist teachers in adapting learning activities to meet individual pupil needs.
• Implement positive behaviour strategies and use effective de-escalation techniques when required.
• Support pupils with emotional regulation, social interaction, and developing independence.
• Deliver targeted interventions and structured support activities under the guidance of teaching staff.
• Monitor and record pupil progress, behaviour, and wellbeing, providing feedback to relevant school staff.
• Promote inclusion and ensure pupils can fully access the curriculum and wider school life.