Mental Health Teaching Assistant – Primary & Secondary (Pontefract) Full-Time | Long-Term Opportunities Are you passionate about supporting young people with their mental health and emotional wellbeing? We are recruiting Mental Health Teaching Assistants to work with pupils across primary and secondary schools in Pontefract. Leader Education is working with supportive schools to find dedicated individuals who can provide consistent emotional and behavioural support to pupils who may be struggling with anxiety, SEMH needs, or barriers to learning. The Role This is a full-time position (Monday–Friday) supporting pupils who require additional help with emotional regulation, behaviour, and engagement in the classroom. You will: Provide 1:1 and small group support for pupils with SEMH or mental health needs Help pupils manage emotions and regulate behaviour Support students to stay engaged with learning Build strong, trusting relationships with pupils Work closely with teachers and pastoral staff Promote a calm and supportive classroom environment Pupils you support may present with SEMH needs, anxiety, Autism (ASC), ADHD, or other emotional or behavioural challenges. Ideal Candidate This role would suit someone who is: Patient, empathetic, and resilient Passionate about supporting young people’s mental health Confident supporting pupils with behavioural challenges Reliable and committed to full-time work Relevant backgrounds include: Youth work Care or residential support Psychology graduates Mental health support roles Sports coaching Behaviour mentoring Previous school experience is helpful but not essential. Why Work with Leader Education Weekly pay via compliant umbrella payroll Free SEND and behaviour management training Dedicated consultant support Long-term and temp-to-perm opportunities Full AWR compliance All roles are subject to safer recruitment checks. An Enhanced Child or Child & Adult DBS is required (support available). INDTAL