Job Description
Level 1 Teaching Assistant - Behaviour Support (Secondary SEN School)
Location: Rochdale, Greater ManchesterSalary: Competitive daily rateContract Type: Full-Time, Temporary (with potential to become permanent)Start Date: September 2025
Your New Company
Hays Education are working in partnership with a large, well-regarded secondary special school in Rochdale that supports students aged 11-19 with a wide range of additional needs, including autism spectrum conditions (ASC), social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, and moderate to severe learning difficulties. The school is known for its inclusive ethos, structured learning pathways, and strong focus on preparing students for life beyond education. The school has a dedicated behaviour support team and a positive behaviour policy rooted in restorative practice and emotional regulation. Staff work closely with therapists, families, and external agencies to provide a consistent and nurturing environment where students feel safe, respected, and supported. This is a full-time, temporary role with the potential to become permanent for the right candidate.
Your New Job
As a Level 1 Teaching Assistant with a behaviour support focus, you will work closely with students who require additional help managing their emotions, routines, and social interactions. You will support pupils across Key Stages 3 to 5, both in the classroom and during unstructured times, helping to implement behaviour strategies and promote positive engagement. Your responsibilities will include:
* Supporting students with SEMH needs and behavioural challenges in lessons and around school.
* Implementing behaviour support plans and de-escalation strategies.
* Building trusting relationships with pupils to encourage engagement and emotional regulation.
* Assisting with transitions, routines, and structured activities.
* Working collaboratively with teachers, pastoral staff, and external professionals.
What You'll Need to Succeed
* Experience working with children or young people with behavioural needs, ideally in an educational or care setting.
* A calm, resilient, and empathetic approach to behaviour support.
* Strong communication and teamwork skills.
* A willingness to learn and adapt to the needs of individual students.
* Relevant qualifications such as a Level 1 or Level 2 Teaching Assistant certificate, or equivalent experience.
What You'll Get in Return
* A rewarding opportunity to support young people in overcoming barriers to learning.
* A supportive and experienced team environment.
* Access to ongoing CPD and behaviour support training.
* Competitive daily rate and potential for a permanent contract.
* The chance to work in a well-resourced, specialist setting with a strong reputation.
What You Need to Do Now
If you're interested in this role, click 'Apply Now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or contact the Hays Education team directly on. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position in education, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk