Job Description

SEND & SEMH Teaching Assistant EYFS- KS2

Pontefract (WF7)

September 2026 start

PK Education are currently recruiting for a Primary SEND & SEMH Teaching Assistant to support pupils within a specialist Resource Provision based within a primary school in Pontefract.

This rewarding role involves supporting children with a range of additional needs, including:
• SEMH (Social, Emotional & Mental Health)
• Autism (ASC)
• ADHD
• Speech, Language and Communication Needs
• Additional learning needs

The successful candidate will:
• Support pupils on a 1:1 and small-group basis
• Build positive and trusting relationships
• Promote engagement, emotional regulation and positive behaviour
• Adapt learning activities to meet individual needs
• Work closely with teachers, SENDCOs and wider support staff

We are particularly keen to hear from:
• SEND Teaching Assistants
• SEMH Teaching Assistants
• Behaviour Support Workers
• Learning Support Assistants
• Primary Teaching Assistants with SEND experience

Requirements:
• Previous experience supporting children with SEND or SEMH needs
• A patient, resilient and nurturing approach
• Strong communication and behaviour management skills
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one)

Full-time opportunities available immediately and for September 2026 starts.

If you are passionate about helping children overcome barriers to learning and achieve their potential, we would love to hear from you.

- Competitive rates of pay from £98 to £110 per day(AWR compliant)

• Opportunities across specialist SEND schools, resource provisions, alternative provisions and mainstream inclusion settings

• Access to the PK Pathway supporting career progression within SEND through ongoing development and practical school-based experience

• Exposure to trauma-informed practice, behaviour intervention, autism support and complex SEND environments

• On-the-job training and support provided by both the school and experienced SEND education consultants

• Long-term and permanent opportunities available for candidates looking to build a career within Special Educational Needs and Disabilities

• Dedicated 24/7 support and honest feedback from specialist SEND consultants who understand the sector and school demand

PK Education has been supporting schools and specialist provisions since 2005, building strong partnerships through a straightforward and honest approach. As SEND demand continues to grow across education, we pride ourselves on intelligently matching candidates to environments where they can positively impact pupils whilst developing long-term careers within SEND.

Our mission is simple: To Inspire Potential in our team, in our candidates and in every child.

PK Education is committed to embracing equal opportunities and diversity for all employees, workers and applicants and adheres to this policy at all times.