Teaching Assistant

Full-Time Teaching Assistant (SEMH Primary Provision)

Start Date: ASAP or September

GSL Education is proud to be working with a highly supportive and specialist primary SEMH provision in Bournemouth, dedicated to helping children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs thrive both academically and personally.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a resilient, compassionate and proactive Teaching Assistant who is passionate about making a genuine difference in the lives of children who need consistency, structure, and positive role models the most.

As a Teaching Assistant within this specialist setting, you will work closely with teaching staff and pastoral teams to support primary-aged pupils with a range of SEMH needs. Many of the learners may present with challenging behaviour linked to trauma, anxiety, or additional learning needs, so your ability to build trust, stay calm under pressure, and provide consistent support will be essential.

You will be:

• Supporting pupils on a 1:1 and small group basis
• Helping to implement personalised learning and behaviour strategies
• Encouraging positive behaviour and emotional regulation
• Building strong, trusting relationships with pupils
• Working collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and pastoral staff
• Supporting both academic progress and emotional development

This environment is ideal for individuals who are:

• Sports Coaches used to building rapport, structure, and discipline
• Primary School Teaching Assistants from mainstream backgrounds
• Nursery Practitioners experienced in early development and care
• Youth Workers or Community Support Workers used to mentoring young people

You do not necessarily need prior SEMH experience, what matters most is your attitude, resilience, and ability to stay positive in challenging situations.

• Resilient, calm, and emotionally grounded
• Passionate about supporting vulnerable children
• Confident managing challenging behaviour in a supportive way
• A strong team player with excellent communication skills
• Committed to creating a safe, nurturing learning environment
• Patient, empathetic, and consistent in approach

• A permanent, full-time position
• Genuine progression opportunities within the provision
• Ongoing training and professional development
• A highly supportive and experienced staff team
• A rewarding role where no two days are the same
• The chance to make a lasting impact on young lives