Learning Support Assistant – SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health)
Location: Portsmouth
Hourly Rate: £13.75
Contract: Term Time Only (Monday to Friday)
Setting: Specialist SEMH School – Rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted
Teaching Personnel is seeking to recruit a committed and experienced Learning Support Assistant to join an Outstanding Ofsted-rated SEMH school in Portsmouth. The school specialises in supporting pupils with complex social, emotional, and mental health needs, providing a nurturing and structured educational environment.
This term-time only position offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the development and wellbeing of young people aged 4–19 who require specialist SEMH provision.
Key Responsibilities:
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Provide individual and small group support to pupils with SEMH needs, assisting them in accessing the curriculum and developing positive behaviours.
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Support the implementation of personalised behaviour and education plans in line with school policies.
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Promote emotional regulation, social skills, and resilience within a therapeutic and supportive setting.
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Collaborate effectively with teaching staff, pastoral teams, and external professionals to ensure holistic pupil support.
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Maintain the highest standards of safeguarding and pupil welfare at all times.
Candidate Requirements:
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Demonstrable experience working within SEN/SEMH environments is essential.
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A patient, consistent, and empathetic approach to supporting pupils with complex needs.
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Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
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Strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
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Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
Benefits of Working with Teaching Personnel:
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Competitive hourly rate of £13.75, paid weekly via PAYE.
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Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement.
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Access to a comprehensive range of free and subsidised CPD training, including Team Teach and Trauma-Informed Practice.
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Opportunities for long-term assignments and potential permanent roles.
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Referral bonus scheme offering £50 for successful recommendations.
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The opportunity to work within a highly regarded, ‘Outstanding’ school committed to professional development and excellent pupil outcomes.
This position represents an excellent opportunity for a skilled professional to make a significant impact within a specialist SEMH educational setting.
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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