Specialist Teaching Assistant (TA) - Complex SEMH / SEND | Wigan
Location: Wigan, Greater Manchester
Salary: £90 - £110 per day
Start Date: Immediate or January 2026
Contract: Full-time, long-term (with potential for permanent appointment)
Join our dedicated team in Wigan as a Specialist Teaching Assistant (TA) supporting students with complex Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This is an exceptional opportunity for a resilient, compassionate professional who is passionate about transforming the lives of young people through education and care.
The Role
A supportive and forward-thinking SEMH school in Wigan is seeking a dedicated, full-time Specialist TA to join their inclusion team. You will play a vital role in supporting students with complex needs who require intensive, tailored support to access learning, build confidence, and thrive emotionally and socially.
Key Responsibilities:
1:1 and Small Group Intervention: Deliver targeted support for pupils with complex SEMH/SEND, including managing challenging behaviour, anxiety, and developmental needs.
Emotional and Behavioural Support: Implement positive behaviour management and de-escalation strategies to foster emotional regulation and resilience.
EHCP Implementation: Collaborate with the SENCO and teaching staff to ensure all provisions in each student's Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) are fully met.
Curriculum Access: Adapt learning materials and differentiate activities to promote full inclusion and progress.
Mentorship and Advocacy: Act as a trusted mentor and advocate, building positive relationships with students, parents, and external professionals.What We Offer
Competitive Salary: Pay is to scale and based on experience.
Start Date: January 2026 or sooner for the right candidate.
Location: SEMH school in Wigan, Greater Manchester.
Professional Development: Access to specialist training such as Trauma-Informed Practice, Team Teach/Positive Handling (desirable), and bespoke SEND courses.
Supportive Environment: Join a team dedicated to nurturing and empowering young people to reach their potential.Essential Requirements & Skills
We are looking for a Specialist Teaching Assistant who has:
Proven experience supporting children or young people with SEMH and/or complex SEND (Autism, ADHD, challenging behaviour, etc.)
A relevant qualification (e.g., Level 3 Teaching Assistant, Youth Work, or equivalent experience in SEN support)
Strong resilience, empathy, and a calm, consistent approach
Knowledge of positive behaviour management and de-escalation strategies
A firm commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
An Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply for one)If you are an experienced SEN TA, Behaviour Mentor, or Youth Worker looking for a truly rewarding role in Wigan, we would love to hear from you!
Click 'Apply Now' to be considered for this great position as a Teaching Assistant within Wigan, or for more information about the role, contact Christina on (phone number removed) or (url removed)