Job Description

We are seeking an empathetic, highly resilient, and dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistant to provide vital 1:1 support for a secondary-aged pupil with an active Individualised Education Program (IEP). This position is based within a forward-thinking secondary setting in Blackpool and runs for the full 2026/2027 academic year.

Vulnerable young people facing complex social, emotional, and mental health barriers require more than just academic help-they need a consistent, trusting adult to anchor their school day. In this role, you will work closely with the school's inclusion team and Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) to implement trauma-informed strategies, reduce anxiety, and help the pupil engage with their learning safely and productively.

We are fully committed to ethical recruitment and transparent pay structures. This position bypasses flat agency rates to pay you directly to the NJC scale from Day 1, ensuring your specific experience and skill set are fairly compensated from your very first shift.

• Provide dedicated 1:1 emotional, pastoral, and academic mentoring to a secondary student with designated SEMH needs.

• De-escalate challenging situations calmly using positive behaviour management and trauma-informed practices.

• Work outside the standard classroom environment when necessary, delivering targeted 1:1 interventions to boost emotional regulation, self-esteem, and resilience.

• Differentiate learning materials under the guidance of subject teachers to keep the student focused and reduce frustration-based triggers.

• Track, record, and report daily progress against the student's specific IEP targets and milestones to assist with regular multidisciplinary reviews.

• Act as a stable, positive role model, fostering a sense of safety and independence as they navigate the secondary school environment.

• Experience: A proven background supporting young people with complex SEMH needs, behaviour challenges, or trauma. Experience in secondary schools, Pupil Referral Units (PRUs), Alternative Provisions, youth work, or residential care is highly valued.

• IEP Knowledge: Solid understanding of how to implement and track specific goals outlined in a student's Individualised Education Program.

• Mindset: Exceptional emotional intelligence, thick skin, and a non-judgemental approach. The ability to remain entirely calm and boundaries under pressure is non-negotiable.

• Qualifications: Level 2 or 3 Teaching Assistant qualification is preferred, but relevant experience in youth/pastoral care is equally welcome. Training in Team Teach, MAPA, or specific de-escalation strategies is a significant advantage.

• Compliance: An enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service (or a willingness to process a new one) and full commitment to rigorous safeguarding regulations.

• Honest Pay: Direct mapping to the NJC Pay Scale from Day 1, honoring your true market value without hidden margins.

• True Stability: A guaranteed, full-time contract for the entire academic year (September 2026 - July 2027).

• Sector Expertise: Ongoing professional development opportunities and localised support from a dedicated consultant specialising in the Blackpool and Lancashire education markets.

If you have the stamina, empathy, and dedication to turn a young person's education journey around right here in Blackpool, we want to hear from you today.

Please click 'Apply Now' to submit your CV, or reach out directly to our Blackpool Secondary & SEN Recruitment Team for a confidential discussion.