Learning Support Assistant (SEMH) – Portsmouth
£13.75 per hour | Flexible & Rewarding Role
We are looking for a caring, reliable Learning Support Assistant to join a school based in Portsmouth, supporting pupils across multiple local sites. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys building strong relationships and supporting young people who need learning to look a little different.
About the role:
You will be supporting pupils aged 5–16 years with SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) needs, many of whom are school avoidant. Support will include:
Helping pupils gradually re-engage with learning
Supporting attendance during time spent in school
Delivering and supporting off-site activities to promote engagement, confidence, and coping strategies
Encouraging emotional regulation, resilience, and positive behaviour
Working closely with staff to support individual learning and wellbeing plans
Key requirements:
Ideally a driver with access to a vehicle, due to travel between multiple sites in Portsmouth
Calm, patient, and empathetic approach
Ability to build trust and positive relationships with children and young people
Flexible and proactive mindset
Experience:
No previous school experience required
Experience in youth work, coaching, mentoring, care, or similar roles is desirable but not essential
Full training and ongoing support provided
What’s on offer:
Competitive pay at £13.75 per hour
Meaningful, hands-on work making a real difference
Supportive team environment
Opportunity to develop experience within SEMH and alternative education
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for 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.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with 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 all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
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