Job Description

Teaching Assistant - Secondary SEMH School
Location: Bolton, Greater Manchester
Start Date: September 2026
Contract: Full-Time, Term Time Only
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

Are you passionate about supporting young people who face social, emotional and mental health challenges? Do you have the resilience, empathy and dedication needed to help students overcome barriers to learning and achieve success?

We are seeking a committed and enthusiastic Teaching Assistant to join a specialist Secondary SEMH school in Bolton from September 2026. This is an exciting opportunity to make a genuine difference in the lives of young people aged 11-16 who require additional support to engage with education and reach their full potential.

As a Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with teachers and pastoral staff to support students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. You will help create a safe, structured and positive learning environment where students can develop both academically and personally.

• Provide classroom support to students on a one-to-one and small group basis.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with young people.
• Support students in managing their emotions and behaviour effectively.
• Assist with the delivery of tailored learning activities and interventions.
• Promote engagement, confidence, self-esteem and independence.
• Work collaboratively with teaching staff, pastoral teams and external professionals.
• Contribute to behaviour support plans and individual learning programmes.
• Maintain a calm, consistent and nurturing approach at all times.

• Experience working with children or young people, ideally within an SEMH, SEND, alternative provision or secondary school setting.
• Strong behaviour management and relationship-building skills.
• A patient, resilient and empathetic nature.
• The ability to remain calm under pressure and respond positively to challenging situations.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• A genuine passion for supporting vulnerable young people.

• Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification.
• Experience supporting students with SEMH needs, autism, ADHD or challenging behaviour.
• Team Teach, MAPA or other positive behaviour support training (desirable but not essential).

• A supportive and experienced leadership team.
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
• A rewarding role where no two days are the same.
• The opportunity to positively impact the lives and futures of young people.
• A welcoming and collaborative working environment.

If you are committed to helping young people overcome barriers to education and thrive both in and out of the classroom, we would love to hear from you.

To apply, please submit your CV and a brief covering statement outlining your relevant experience and suitability for the role.