We are seeking a dedicated, resilient and compassionate Senior Assistant Teacher (HLTA equivalent) to join a specialist secondary provision supporting pupils aged 11–16 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. This is a full-time, Monday to Friday position, starting after the Easter holidays and continuing until the end of the academic year.
About the Role
This is a rewarding and dynamic opportunity for someone passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people who face barriers to learning. You will work closely with class teachers to support the delivery of engaging and accessible lessons, helping pupils to re-engage with education and achieve positive outcomes.
In addition to in-class support, you will be expected to lead small group teaching sessions and, where required, cover lessons for small classes, ensuring continuity of learning in a structured and supportive environment.
About the Pupils
The students you will be supporting have a range of SEMH needs, which can present as:
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Difficulties with emotional regulation
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Low self-esteem and anxiety
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Challenging behaviour, including verbal outbursts or disengagement
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Barriers to forming positive relationships with peers and adults
The role requires someone who is calm under pressure, consistent in their approach, and skilled at building trusting relationships. A strong understanding of behaviour management strategies and a nurturing, patient mindset are essential.
Key Responsibilities
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Support teachers in delivering high-quality lessons
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Provide targeted support to individuals and small groups
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Lead small class teaching when required
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Help manage and de-escalate challenging behaviour
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Contribute to a positive, safe and structured learning environment
The Ideal Candidate Will Have:
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Experience working with secondary-aged pupils, ideally within SEMH or similar settings
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HLTA status or equivalent experience
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Strong behaviour management skills
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Confidence in leading learning independently when required
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A proactive, adaptable and resilient approach
Why Join Us?
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Opportunity to make a real and lasting impact on young people’s lives
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Supportive and collaborative staff team
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Valuable experience in a specialist education setting
If you are passionate about supporting young people to overcome challenges and succeed, we would love to hear from you.
Apply now with your CV and we will be in touch to discuss the opportunity further.
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.
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