SEMH teaching assistant

Location: Rochdale
Agency: Teaching Personnel
Start Date: September

Teaching Personnel are seeking a confident, proactive, and resilient Teaching Assistant to join a specialist SEMH provision in the Rochdale area. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, rewarding environment and is passionate about helping young people overcome barriers to learning.

About the School

This specialist setting supports pupils aged 11–16 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. The school is committed to creating a structured, nurturing, and supportive environment where students can rebuild confidence, re-engage with education, and achieve meaningful personal and academic progress.

Staff work collaboratively to ensure consistency, develop positive relationships, and provide the stability each pupil needs to succeed.

The Role

This is a hands-on and dynamic role, ideal for someone who can think on their feet, use initiative, and respond to challenges effectively.

You will support pupils both in and out of the classroom—helping them manage behaviour, stay engaged, and establish positive daily routines.

No two days are the same, so adaptability, resilience, and a calm approach are essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small group support
• Support behaviour using positive and consistent strategies
• Build strong, trusting relationships with pupils
• Assist in delivering engaging lessons and activities
• Support emotional regulation and transitions throughout the day
• Respond to situations confidently and independently
• Work closely with teachers and the wider support team
• Maintain a calm, professional approach at all times

What We’re Looking For

Essential:

• Experience working with children or young people
• A confident, proactive, and adaptable mindset
• Ability to work independently and take initiative
• Strong behaviour management skills
• Resilience, patience, and composure under pressure
• A genuine passion for supporting young people

Desirable:

• Experience in SEMH, PRU, or alternative provision settings
• Team Teach training (or willingness to complete)
• Understanding of trauma-informed practice
• Experience supporting challenging behaviour

What Teaching Personnel Offer

• Long-term, full-time opportunities
• Competitive weekly pay
• Ongoing CPD and training
• Dedicated consultant support
• A truly rewarding role where you’ll make a real difference

Apply Now

If you’re a motivated, hands-on individual ready to positively impact young people’s lives, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today with Teaching Personnel to find out more about opportunities in Rochdale.

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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