KS3 Teaching Assistant

Location:

Oakham

Contract:

Full-Time, Temp-to-Perm

Start Date:

1st September 2026

Hays Education are proud to be working with a specialist SEMH School that supports Key Stage 3 pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. The school is committed to providing a safe, structured and nurturing environment where students can rebuild confidence, develop positive relationships and achieve both academically and personally.

With a strong focus on therapeutic and trauma-informed approaches, the school offers exceptional support to both students and staff. You'll be joining a dedicated team who are passionate about helping young people overcome barriers to learning and reach their full potential.

As a KS3 Teaching Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting students both in and out of the classroom. Working alongside teachers and pastoral teams, you will help create an engaging and positive learning environment while supporting students with their social, emotional and behavioural needs.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing 1:1 and small-group support to KS3 pupils.
• Building positive, trusting relationships with students.
• Supporting students to engage with learning and achieve their targets.
• Helping to manage challenging behaviour using positive behaviour strategies.
• Assisting with the delivery of tailored learning activities.
• Supporting students with emotional regulation, social skills and personal development.
• Working collaboratively with teachers, therapists and other professionals to meet individual needs.

To be successful in this role, you will:

• Have previous experience working with young people, ideally within an SEMH, SEN or Alternative Provision setting.
• Be resilient, patient and able to remain calm under pressure.
• Have strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Be confident supporting students who may display challenging behaviours.
• Demonstrate a genuine passion for helping vulnerable young people succeed.
• Have an understanding of trauma-informed practice and positive behaviour support (desirable).
• Hold relevant Teaching Assistant qualifications or equivalent experience (desirable but not essential).

• Competitive rates of pay.
• Opportunity to secure a permanent position.
• Ongoing support from a dedicated Hays consultant.
• Access to training and professional development opportunities.
• The chance to make a genuine difference to the lives of young people.

If you're passionate about supporting KS3 students with SEMH needs and are looking for a rewarding role within a specialist setting, we'd love to hear from you.