Job Title: SEN Teaching Assistant (BESD / SEMH Focus)
Location: Blandford Forum, Dorset
Start Date: January
Contract Type: Full-Time / Long-Term Supply / Permanent options available
About the School:
We are partnered with a specialist Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) located in Blandford Forum. The school provides a nurturing, alternative learning environment for children and young people experiencing Behavioural, Emotional, and Social Difficulties (BESD/SEMH). Dedicated to re-engaging pupils with their education, the school focuses on personal development, emotional regulation, and academic progress.
The Role:
As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you will play a pivotal role in mentoring, supporting, and guiding students who may struggle in mainstream settings. You will work alongside teachers and specialist support staff to create a calm, structured, and inclusive atmosphere where pupils feel safe to learn.
Key Responsibilities:
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Support students on a 1-to-1 basis and in small groups across various key stages.
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Assist with behavior management using positive reinforcement, de-escalation techniques, and emotional support strategies.
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Build trusting, professional relationships with pupils to act as a positive role model.
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Assist teaching staff in adapting activities and resources to suit individual student needs.
What We Are Looking For:
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Experience working with children or young people with BESD, SEMH, or challenging behavior (backgrounds in youth work, sports coaching, residential care, or psychology are highly valued).
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High levels of resilience, empathy, patience, and emotional intelligence.
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A proactive, positive mindset and a passion for alternative provision.
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Relevant training (such as Team Teach or restraint reduction certificates) is a distinct advantage, though ongoing training support is available.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
For details of our privacy policy, please visit the Teaching Personnel website.
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