SEMH Teaching Assistant

Teaching Assistant – SEMH Provision

Location: Portsmouth
Contract: Full-time | Term Time Only

Are you passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of young people?

We are seeking a dedicated and resilient Teaching Assistant to join a specialist educational setting in Portsmouth, supporting students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. This is a rewarding opportunity to help young people overcome barriers to learning, build confidence, and achieve their full potential.

The Role

As a Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with teachers and pastoral staff to provide tailored support for students with SEMH needs. You will help create a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment where every student feels valued and supported.

Your responsibilities will include:

Providing one-to-one and small group support within the classroom.
Building positive, trusting relationships with students.
Supporting pupils in managing their emotions and behaviours using positive behaviour strategies.
Encouraging engagement, independence, and personal development.
Assisting with lesson preparation and classroom activities.
Working collaboratively with teachers, parents, and external professionals to support student progress.
About You

We are looking for someone who:

Has experience working with children or young people, ideally those with SEMH, SEND, or challenging behaviour.
Is patient, empathetic, and resilient.
Can remain calm and confident in challenging situations.
Has excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
Holds a Teaching Assistant qualification (desirable but not essential).
Has experience in education, youth work, care, or support work (advantageous).
What We Offer

A supportive and welcoming team environment.
Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
The chance to make a genuine impact on young people's lives.
A rewarding role where no two days are the same.
Competitive rates of pay.
If you are passionate about supporting young people with SEMH needs and are looking for a meaningful career where you can truly make a difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help shape brighter futures for young people in Portsmouth.

All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.

All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.

Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.

We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.

For details of our privacy policy, please visit the Teaching Personnel website