SEMH Teaching Assistant

Academics are seeking a compassionate, resilient, and proactive Teaching Assistant to join a dedicated team in Maidstone. This role focuses on supporting children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, helping them to overcome barriers to learning and achieve their full potential.

As an SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with class teachers, pastoral staff and external professionals to create a safe, consistent and nurturing environment. You will support students both in the classroom and in small-group or 1:1 settings, promoting positive behaviour, emotional regulation, confidence and engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support for students with SEMH needs

• Build trusting, supportive relationships with pupils

• Assist in the implementation of individual education plans (IEPs) and behaviour support strategies

• Help create an inclusive and emotionally safe learning environment

• Support teachers with classroom activities and behaviour management

• Use de-escalation techniques and trauma-informed approaches

• Monitor and record progress, noting concerns as appropriate

• Work collaboratively with staff, parents and external agencies

About You

• Experience working with children or young people with SEMH (school, youth work, care, or similar)

• Calm, patient, and confident when managing challenging situations

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills

• A positive, encouraging approach to supporting young learners

• Ability to remain resilient and reflective

• Relevant training (Team Teach/positive handling, safeguarding, etc.) is desirable but not essential

• A willingness to learn and develop within the role is essential