Highly Specialised SEND & SEMH Teaching Assistant Roles – East Sussex

I am currently working closely with a number of specialist SEND and SEMH schools across East Sussex who are looking to appoint highly capable, emotionally intelligent Teaching Assistants and Learning Support Assistants.

These are not entry-level classroom support roles. These schools are seeking individuals who understand the complexity of SEND and SEMH provision and who are prepared to work within structured, trauma-informed, and behaviour-conscious environments.

The pupils supported in these settings may present with significant emotional, behavioural or communication needs. Consistency, clarity and calm leadership from adults is essential.

This is work that requires resilience, professional maturity and a genuine commitment to SEND education.

What These Roles May Involve

Depending on the setting, responsibilities may include:

• 1:1 support for pupils with complex SEMH or additional learning needs

• Supporting pupils during periods of dysregulation

• Working within structured behaviour and de-escalation frameworks

• Supporting curriculum access in small, specialist classes

• Liaising with teachers, pastoral leads and SENCOs

• Contributing to personalised support strategies

These are hands-on roles requiring presence, awareness and professionalism.

Who This Is For

These opportunities are well suited to individuals who:

• Have experience within SEND, SEMH, alternative provision or similar settings

• Understand that behaviour is communication

• Can remain calm and measured under pressure

• Are consistent, reliable and emotionally regulated

• Want to build or continue a long-term career within SEND education

Experience is highly valued in these roles. However, strong applicants with relevant transferable backgrounds (care, youth work, therapeutic environments) will be considered.

Why Consider This Route

• Access to specialist SEND and SEMH settings across East Sussex

• Ongoing professional development opportunities

• Clear insight into school expectations before placement

• Roles that prioritise quality and consistency

• Work that genuinely makes a difference

Practical Details

• Roles available across East Sussex

• Immediate and upcoming opportunities

• A valid child-only DBS is required. If you do not hold one, you will be required to apply and pay for a DBS and register it on the Update Service. Guidance is provided throughout to ensure compliance and readiness for work.

If you are serious about SEND and SEMH work and want to be part of high-quality provision, apply today to begin a detailed conversation.

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.
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