Job Description
Location: Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Contract: Flexible Supply / Day-to-Day / Short-Term
Start Date: ASAP
Hours: Full-time or part-time options available
Are you passionate about supporting children and young people with social, emotional and mental health needs? Do you thrive in a role where every day is different and where you can make a genuine impact? We are currently seeking dedicated and compassionate SEMH Teaching Assistants to join our supply pool for a range of schools across Wakefield.
The Role
As an SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will:
1. Provide 1:1 or small-group support to pupils with SEMH needs
2. Help deliver tailored learning strategies under the guidance of teaching staff
3. Support pupils in managing emotions, behaviour and engagement in class
4. Build trusting, positive relationships to promote resilience and self-confidence
5. Work collaboratively with teachers, pastoral teams and external agencies
6. Maintain a calm, supportive and encouraging presence in the classroom
About You
We are looking for individuals who:
7. Have experience working with children with SEMH, SEND, or challenging behaviour
8. Can remain patient, empathetic and resilient under pressure
9. Are confident using de‑escalation and positive behaviour management strategies
10. Communicate effectively and build rapport quickly
11. Are flexible, reliable and ready to work across a range of school settings
A background in youth work, mentoring, psychology, support work or care is also highly valued.
Requirements
12. Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)
13. Right to work in the UK
14. Relevant experience supporting vulnerable young people
15. Up-to-date safeguarding knowledge (training can be provided)
What New Directions Education Ltd offers:
16. A dedicated and expert Account Manager
17. Regular and varied supply work
18. Competitive rates of pay
19. Potential long-term teaching roles
20. Full compliance with the Agency Workers Regulation (AWR)
21. A network of branches across the UK
22. Preferred supplier to more than 20 boroughs across the UK
23. Recommend-a-friend scheme
24. Respected reputation across the education and recruitment industry
We are fully committed to the protection of children and vulnerable adults. All applicants must undertake a full enhanced DBS check.
Please select Apply Now to enquire about this job vacancy with New Directions Education Ltd, Leeds branch.
New Directions Education Ltd is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.