Nurture Teaching Assistant – KS3

Do you believe that connection comes before correction?
Are you passionate about helping young people feel safe, understood, and ready to learn during a crucial stage of their development?

New Directions Education is recruiting a compassionate, patient, and motivated Nurture Teaching Assistant to support pupils in Key Stage 3 within a supportive and inclusive secondary school setting.

This role is perfect for someone who understands that early secondary school can be challenging and that the right emotional support can transform a young person’s confidence, behaviour, and engagement with learning.

As a KS3 Nurture Teaching Assistant, you will support pupils who may be struggling with social, emotional, or behavioural needs. You’ll work closely with teaching and pastoral staff to create a calm, structured, and nurturing environment where pupils feel secure, valued, and ready to succeed.

You’ll play a vital role in helping young people develop emotional regulation, resilience, and positive relationships at a key transition point in their education.

• Supporting pupils 1:1 and in small nurture groups
• Helping young people build self‑confidence, emotional regulation, and social skills
• Providing targeted intervention to re‑engage pupils with learning
• Supporting behaviour using trauma‑informed, positive, and consistent approaches
• Assisting pupils during transitions, unstructured times, and throughout the school day
• Working closely with teachers, SENCOs, and pastoral teams
• Observing, recording, and sharing progress to support individual development plans
• Promoting a safe, calm, and nurturing learning environment

• Are calm, empathetic, and resilient
• Have experience supporting young people in secondary schools or similar settings
• Understand nurture principles, SEMH needs, or trauma‑informed practice
• Can set clear boundaries while maintaining positive, trusting relationships
• Are passionate about supporting young people through challenges
• Work well as part of a team and communicate confidently with staff and families

• Previous experience as a Teaching Assistant or working with young people is desirable
• A genuine interest in supporting pupils with emotional and behavioural needs
• Willingness to complete safeguarding and relevant training if required
• An Enhanced DBS check (or willingness to apply)

• Make a lasting difference during a critical stage of a young person’s life
• Help students feel confident, regulated, and ready to learn
• Be part of a caring, supportive secondary school team
• Develop valuable skills in nurture, SEMH, and pastoral support

All roles are subject to satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS check
.