SEMH Learning Support Assistant
Summary
An inclusive specialist school in Whitehaven is looking for an emotionally resilient and dedicated Learning Support Assistant to join their team this September. This classroom-based role supports pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs who often present with challenging behaviour. Both full-time and part-time applications are welcome. The role is long-term with the potential to become permanent.
What You'll Be Doing
Every day will bring variety, purpose, and opportunities to make a genuine difference. You'll work in a small class group, providing structured emotional and behavioural support alongside a team of highly skilled professionals trained in therapeutic and trauma-informed approaches.
Your responsibilities will include:
* Helping pupils regulate emotions and behaviour through calm, consistent support
* Facilitating resilience-building and therapeutic sessions like bucket therapy
* Supporting engagement in Forest School and other outdoor learning provisions
* Promoting life skills such as cooperation, communication, and emotional reflection
* Attending off-site trips that enrich the learning experience
* Supporting transitions, breaktimes, and high-sensory moments with a steady presence
* Contributing to EHCP outcomes and academic progress through in-class support
Who We're Looking For
* Experience supporting individuals who display challenging behaviour is essential
* A Teaching Assistant qualification is desirable
* Team Teach or equivalent behaviour training is an advantage
* Emotionally resilient, calm, and clear in communication
* A strong belief in inclusive education and the potential of every child
About the School
This specialist setting is built around nurture, structure, and emotional support. With small group teaching, therapeutic outdoor activities, and a focus on building confidence and independence, pupils receive personalised attention and care. Staff collaborate closely to ensure consistency and trust are at the heart of every school day.
Working Hours
Monday to Friday, 8.30 am to 3.30 pm. Both full-time and part-time applicants are welcome.
What's in It for You
* Competitive pay
* Term-time only working
* No shift work, no weekends
* Supportive, well-trained colleagues
* The chance to transition your skills into a meaningful classroom role
If you have the passion, patience, and presence to support young people with SEMH needs, this role offers a unique chance to be part of something transformative.
Safeguarding children is an integral part of what we do and we have a stringent safer recruitment process. We undertake checks on all the candidates we work with. As such we require a current Enhanced DBS Disclosure for everyone working in Schools. If you do not have a subscription to the DBS Update Service, you may be required to complete a new DBS application as part of the registration process. If you take a temporary role with Sense Education you will be paid on a weekly basis. All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position but long term. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Temp to perm
Pay: £14.00-£16.00 per hour
Work Location: In person