SEMH Teaching Assistant

Job Description:

We are seeking a dedicated, resilient and compassionate SEMH Teaching Assistant to join our Pupil Referral Unit (PRU), supporting secondary-aged pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.

Many pupils have experienced barriers to education and may present with complex emotional, behavioural, and social needs. The successful candidate will play a vital role in helping pupils re-engage with learning and develop positive coping strategies.

Students follow a range of pathways, including GCSE subjects and Functional Skills qualifications.

Pupils in our PRU may present with:

• SEMH needs

• Challenging behaviour and emotional disregulation

• ADHD

• Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)

• Anxiety, low self-esteem, and mental health needs

• Trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)

• Attachment-related needs

• Speech, language and communication difficulties

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support to pupils in lessons and interventions

• Support pupils working towards GCSEs and Functional Skills

• Assist pupils to manage emotions and behaviour using trauma-informed and restorative approaches

• Support engagement, motivation, and positive learning behaviours

• Work closely with teaching staff to adapt learning and behaviour strategies

• Support pupils during transitions, unstructured times, and off-site activities if required

• Contribute to behaviour plans, risk assessments, and individual support plans

• Have experience working with children or young people with SEMH and behavioural needs

• Be calm, patient, and consistent, even in challenging situations

• Understand the impact of trauma on behaviour and learning

• Be committed to safeguarding and promoting pupil wellbeing

Desirable (but not essential):

• Experience working in a PRU, alternative provision, or SEN setting

• Training in de-escalation, behaviour management, or Team Teach

• Knowledge of Functional Skills and vocational pathways

• In some settings there is a requirement to drive also

• Ongoing CPD and training opportunities

• The chance to make a genuine difference to vulnerable young people

• A rewarding role in a specialist education setting

Tradewind is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.

Please contact Issy via (url removed) to discuss further!