Teaching Assistant - Alternative Provision (SEMH/SEND) Location: Sandwell Contract Type: Term-time only, Full-time Start Date: December 2025 Daily Rate: £107 per day (depending on experience and qualifications) About Us Aspire UK Academy is launching a new alternative provision for secondary-aged students (11-16) with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH), and/or experiences of trauma. Our mission is to create a safe, therapeutic, and aspirational environment where every student is supported to re-engage with learning, rebuild trust, and thrive socially, emotionally, and academically. The Role We are seeking empathetic, proactive, and values-driven Teaching Assistants to join our founding team. You will play a vital role in building trust, promoting engagement, and helping students regulate and thrive. Working closely with teachers and the wider therapeutic team, you'll help deliver a holistic and trauma-informed approach to education. Key Responsibilities Provide 1:1 and small group support in lessons and therapeutic activities. Use trauma-informed strategies to de-escalate and co-regulate behaviour. Support communication, sensory, and emotional needs. Contribute to safeguarding and wellbeing plans. Build positive relationships with students, families, and professionals. Requirements Experience working with vulnerable young people (education, care, or youth work). Understanding of SEND, trauma, and behaviour that challenges. A calm, compassionate, and reflective approach. Willingness to learn and grow within a therapeutic team. Relevant qualifications (e.g. Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant or Youth Work) - desirable. Safer Recruitment Aspire UK Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All roles are subject to: Enhanced DBS and barred list checks Online checks (in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education - KCSIE ) Verification of identity, qualifications, and employment history Satisfactory references, including one from your most recent employer Shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a self-declaration regarding criminal history prior to interview. Why Join Us? Be part of a founding team shaping a new, therapeutic learning environment. Work in a supportive, values-led organisation committed to inclusion and wellbeing. Make a real difference to the lives of young people every day. Interested? Apply now or contact us for an informal discussion about this rewarding opportunity.