Some pupils need more than structure — they need someone consistent, calm and genuinely on their side.
A specialist SEMH provision in Peterlee is looking to appoint a Trainee Behaviour Support Assistant to support pupils aged 11–16 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs (SEMH), behavioural challenges and disrupted education backgrounds.
The school is built around a strong ethos of restorative practice, consistency and relationship-led support, helping pupils rebuild trust in education and develop the skills needed to succeed.
Location: Peterlee
Hours: 8:30am – 4:30pm | Monday–Friday | Term Time Only
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Daily Expectations & Routine
• Staff arrive at 8:30am for a morning briefing
• Pupils follow structured routines with clear expectations and boundaries
• You will support in lessons, as well as during transition periods and unstructured times
• Break and lunch are fully supervised, with a focus on positive interactions
• Pupils leave earlier, with staff remaining until 4:30pm for debriefs, behaviour reviews and planning
Consistency and presence are key — pupils respond best to staff who are reliable and engaged.
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The Role
As a Behaviour Support Assistant, you will:
• Support pupils in managing behaviour and staying engaged in lessons
• Build strong, professional relationships with pupils
• Use de-escalation strategies and positive reinforcement
• Support emotional regulation and help pupils re-engage with learning
• Work closely with teachers and pastoral teams
This is a hands-on role, where you will be expected to actively engage rather than observe.
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The Pupils
Pupils may present with:
• SEMH needs
• ADHD and impulsive behaviours
• Anxiety and emotional regulation difficulties
• Gaps in education and low confidence
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Experience Requirements
Experience is not essential.
This role is ideal for:
• Graduates
• Youth workers or sports coaches
• Individuals from care or support backgrounds
• Anyone passionate about supporting young people
You may begin on a trainee scale, with ongoing support and development.
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Behaviour & Environment
• Clear boundaries are in place across the school
• Behaviour is managed through structure, consistency and relationship building
• Staff are supported by experienced senior leaders
• The environment is calm, purposeful and well-managed
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Dress Code
• Smart-casual and practical
• Comfortable footwear
• Clothing suitable for an active role
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What We Are Looking For
• Passion for working in education
• A genuine interest in supporting young people
• Resilience, patience and a calm approach
• Confidence in building relationships
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What’s in It for You?
• A strong entry point into education
• Experience within SEMH settings
• Ongoing support and development
• Weekly PAYE pay
We do not use umbrella companies, ensuring transparent and fair pay.
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Apply Now
If you are ready to make a difference and build a career in education, apply now to find out more.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQs on the Protocol Education website for further details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Protocol Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with the DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’, this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer FREE online safeguarding and Prevent Duty training to all our workers. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and subscribe to the DBS Update Service.
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