SEMH / SEN Teaching Assistant

Job Title: SEMH / SEN Teaching Assistant

Location: Bedford & Surrounding Areas

Contract: Full-time & Part-time options available – Term Time Only

Start Date: Immediate & Ongoing opportunities

About the Opportunity

We are currently recruiting dedicated SEN Teaching Assistants to join a variety of welcoming and inclusive schools across Bedford and the surrounding areas. We are specifically looking for individuals who are passionate about supporting children with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, Autism (ASC), and Communication Difficulties.

The Role

As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you will be a vital support system for students who face barriers to learning. You will work closely with class teachers and SENCOs to provide 1:1 mentorship or small group assistance, helping pupils navigate their school day with confidence.

You will support a diverse range of needs, including:

• SEMH: Helping children regulate their emotions and manage behavioral challenges.
• Autism (ASC): Providing structure and routine to help students navigate the school environment.
• Communication Difficulties: Using creative methods (such as visual aids) to help students express themselves and understand instructions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Tailored Support: Provide 1:1 or small group guidance for pupils with SEMH, Autism, and speech and language needs.
• Communication Aid: Assist students with communication difficulties by using visual timetables and alternative communication methods.
• Behavioural Mentoring: Use positive reinforcement and de-escalation strategies to support emotional regulation and engagement.
• Inclusive Environment: Help adapt classroom materials to ensure they are accessible for students with sensory or communication needs.
• Collaboration: Work as part of a multidisciplinary team to implement EHCPs and track student progress.

Requirements:

• Experience: Previous experience working with children with SEN, Autism, or SEMH (this could be in schools, care, or community settings).
• Skills: Knowledge of communication tools (like Makaton or PECS) is highly advantageous.
• Mindset: A patient, resilient, and proactive approach—someone who can stay calm and supportive in challenging situations.
• Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build strong rapport with students and staff.
• Qualifications: Backgrounds in Psychology, Education, or Speech and Language Therapy are welcomed.

What We Offer:

• Top-Tier Pay: Highly competitive daily rates paid weekly.
• Flexibility: Work patterns that fit your lifestyle, from daily supply to long-term placements.
• Local Impact: Opportunities to work within a variety of schools across the Bedford region.
• Growth: Access to ongoing CPD, training (including Team-Teach), and professional development.

Safeguarding: All applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and thorough referencing in line with safer recruitment practices.

To Apply:

If you are ready to empower students in Bedford to overcome communication barriers and emotional challenges, we want to hear from you.

Please apply directly through this platform or send your CV via email to: katarzyna.french@teachingpersonnel.com and we will be in touch to discuss available opportunities.

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.
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