SEMH Teaching Assistant

SEMH Teaching Assistant

September 2026 Start

Full-Time | Long-Term Opportunity | Term-Time Only

Are you passionate about supporting young people and helping them overcome barriers to learning?

Do you have experience in care, youth work, coaching, the armed forces, emergency services, health and social care, or simply a natural ability to build positive relationships with children?

Leader Education is working in partnership with inclusive mainstream and specialist SEND schools across Leeds and Wakefield to recruit dedicated SEMH Classroom Assistants for the 2026/27 academic year.

This is a rewarding opportunity to support children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, autism, ADHD, and additional learning needs. You'll play a vital role in helping pupils build confidence, develop emotional resilience, and achieve success both inside and outside the classroom.

Whether you're an experienced education professional or looking to transfer your skills from another people-focused role, we want to hear from you.

As an SEMH Classroom Assistant, you will work closely with pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups, providing the support they need to engage in learning, regulate their emotions, and reach their potential.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing 1:1 and small-group support for pupils with SEMH and additional needs
• Helping pupils remain engaged, focused, and motivated throughout the school day
• Supporting emotional regulation and positive behaviour strategies
• Building trusted, positive relationships with pupils
• Adapting learning activities to suit individual needs and abilities
• Encouraging social development, confidence, and independence
• Working collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, therapists, and wider school staff
• Contributing to a safe, structured, and nurturing learning environment

You may support pupils with:

• Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
• ADHD
• Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs
• Moderate Learning Difficulties (MLD)
• Physical and sensory needs

Some positions may involve personal care responsibilities.

We're looking for individuals who are:

• Patient, calm, and resilient
• Caring, empathetic, and supportive
• Passionate about helping children succeed
• Confident building positive relationships and setting boundaries
• Committed to making a long-term impact
• Available to work full-time, Monday to Friday

We particularly welcome applicants with backgrounds in:

• Youth Work
• Care and Support Work
• Residential Childcare
• Health & Social Care
• Sports Coaching
• The Armed Forces or Cadet Forces
• Emergency Services
• Prison and Rehabilitation Services
• Drama and Performing Arts
• Creative Arts
• Mentoring and Community Support

Previous school experience is beneficial but not essential. Full training and ongoing support are provided, making this an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to begin or develop a career supporting children and young people.

• Weekly pay through a compliant umbrella payroll
• Free Team Teach training
• Ongoing professional development opportunities
• Dedicated support from an experienced education consultant
• Long-term temporary placements with temp-to-perm opportunities
• Full AWR compliance and employment support
• Opportunities to gain valuable SEND and SEMH experience

September 2026

All roles are subject to safer recruitment and compliance checks. An Enhanced DBS (Child Workforce or Child & Adult Workforce) is required. If you do not currently hold one, we can support you with the application process.

If you're looking for a role where you can genuinely change lives, develop valuable skills, and be part of a supportive school community, apply today.