Job Description

SEMH Teaching Assistant

Are you passionate about making a genuine difference in the lives of young people with complex needs? Do you have a resilient nature and the ability to build strong, trusting relationships with vulnerable pupils? Are you looking for a rewarding, full-time role within a highly supportive and active learning environment?

If so, Randstad Education wants to hear from you. We are currently recruiting a dedicated, empathetic, and proactive SEMH Teaching Assistant for a fantastic specialist school in the Retford area. This full-time role offers an immediate start on a long-term basis, providing a brilliant opportunity for someone looking to build a career that truly matters.

• Full-time, Monday to Friday (Term-time only)

• Start Date: September 2026 on a long-term basis, potentially leading to temp to perm

• Position: SEMH Teaching Assistant

They are a dedicated specialist school catering to students with complex Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. They pride themselves on providing a "nurture-first" curriculum, where active learning is at the heart of everything they do. By focusing on the individual rather than the diagnosis, they create a safe, stimulating space for pupils who have often struggled in mainstream education. The team there is collaborative, passionate, and entirely committed to helping every student find their spark.

• Resilience: The ability to remain calm, professional, and patient during challenging or emotionally charged situations.

• Empathy: A deep understanding of SEMH needs and the unique educational and social barriers these students face.

• Adaptability: A flexible mindset to think on your feet, as no two days within this specialist environment are the same.

• Active Mindset: A willingness to participate fully in physical activities, sports, and active learning sessions to keep students engaged.

• Providing tailored 1:1 and small group support to students with complex SEMH and behavioural needs.

• Assisting the class teacher in managing classroom dynamics, defusing conflict, and maintaining a positive learning environment.

• Leading or assisting in sports and physical activities to encourage positive engagement and emotional regulation throughout the day.

• Monitoring and recording student progress, boosting their self-esteem, and ensuring all safeguarding protocols are strictly followed.

• Previous experience working with children or young people with SEMH needs, complex behaviours, or within a care/support work setting in the UK.

• Full eligibility to work in the UK (visa sponsorship is not available for this role).

• An enhanced DBS check on the update service, or a willingness to undergo a new check via Randstad.

• A compassionate, non-judgmental approach and a genuine desire to act as a positive role model and mentor.

When you partner with Randstad Education, you are supported by a global recruitment leader with a deeply personal, local approach. Benefits include:

• Earn £300 in Love2shop vouchers for every person you successfully refer to us (T&Cs apply).

• Free access to professional development courses, including Team Teach training.

• Guidance from a specialist SEND consultant to manage your placement and support your career goals.

If you have the resilience and empathy required to support students who need it most, please apply directly or get in touch with the SEN team for further details:

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