SEMH Teaching Assistant

Job Title:

SEMH Teaching Assistant (Social, Emotional & Mental Health)

Location:

Wakefield, West Yorkshire Pay Rate: £95 £ 115 per day Contract Type:
Full-time, Long-term Placements & Flexible Supply Are you a resilient, empathetic Teaching Assistant experienced in supporting children and young people with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs? GAC Education is recruiting dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistants to work across specialist SEMH provisions, Alternative Provisions (APs), Pupil Referral Units (PRUs), and mainstream SEN hubs throughout Wakefield and the surrounding West Yorkshire area.

In an SEMH setting, behaviour is often a form of communication. We are seeking practitioners who understand trauma-informed practice, excel at building trusting relationships, and can remain calm under pressure to help vulnerable pupils re-engage with their learning.

Key Responsibilities Providing 1:1, small group, and targeted mentoring for pupils with EHCPs for SEMH, trauma histories, or associated conditions (such as ADHD, ASC, and attachment disorders). Utilizing de-escalation techniques and positive behaviour support strategies to help pupils regulate their emotions. Assisting class teachers with tailored learning tasks, movement breaks, and sensory activities. Fostering an inclusive, non-judgmental classroom atmosphere that encourages self-esteem and emotional resilience.

What We Are Looking For Direct experience supporting children or young adults with SEMH, challenging behaviour, or complex emotional needs (in education, residential care, youth work, or PRUs). Strong understanding of safeguarding procedures and Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) guidance. An Enhanced DBS check on the Update Service (or a willingness to complete one during registration). De-escalation training (e.g., Team-Teach, MAPA, or Safety-Intervention) is highly desirable.