Graduate SEMH Teaching Assistant
Start Your Career Making a Real Difference
Flexible roles across East Manchester
Perfect for graduates in Psychology, Education, Criminology, Sociology & Youth Work
Are You Ready to Turn Your Degree Into Impact?
Finishing university and wondering what’s next?
If you're looking for a career that is meaningful, fast-paced, and genuinely rewarding, this could be the perfect opportunity.
Gain hands-on experience supporting young people with social, emotional and mental health needs, while building the skills and confidence needed for careers in:
* Teaching
* Educational & Clinical Psychology
* Youth Justice
* Social Care
* Mental Health Services
About the Role
As a Graduate SEMH Teaching Assistant, you’ll play a key role in supporting pupils who face barriers to learning due to behavioural, emotional, or mental health challenges.
No two days are the same, but every day, you make a difference.
What You’ll Be Doing
Supporting Students
* Working 1:1 with pupils who need consistent emotional and behavioural support
* Leading small group sessions focused on learning, regulation or social skills
* Applying positive behaviour strategies and trauma-informed approaches
* Helping students manage routines, transitions and classroom expectations
Creating a Safe & Positive Environment
* Building strong, trusting relationships with pupils
* Encouraging engagement – even on challenging days
* Modelling calm, supportive behaviour
* Promoting emotional wellbeing and resilience
Working With School Teams
* Collaborating with teachers, SEND staff and pastoral leads
* Adapting learning activities to meet individual needs
* Supporting behaviour and safeguarding plans
* Providing feedback on pupil progress and development
Gaining Valuable Experience
* Working across SEMH schools, PRUs, mainstream settings and inclusion units
* Supporting different age groups and needs
* Choosing from flexible placements – day-to-day, short-term or long-term
Why Join Teaching Personnel?
We specialise in supporting graduates taking their first step into education and mental health careers.
✅ Expert Support
* Dedicated consultant with SEMH expertise
* Pre-placement preparation and coaching
* Ongoing guidance and regular check-ins
✅ Free Professional Training
Boost your CV with CPD certifications including:
* Trauma-Informed Practice
* Behaviour Management & De-escalation
* Safeguarding
* Mental Health in Schools
* Autism & ADHD Awareness
✅ Career Progression
This role is the perfect stepping stone into:
* Educational or Clinical Psychology
* Teacher Training / PGCE
* SENCO careers
* Youth Justice & Social Care
* CAMHS and therapeutic roles
✅ Practical Benefits
* Competitive weekly pay
* Flexible working to suit your schedule
* Opportunities for long-term and permanent roles
* Work in supportive, inclusive school environments
Who We’re Looking For
We want graduates who are passionate about making a difference.
Degrees We Welcome:
* Psychology
* Education / Early Years
* Criminology or Sociology
* Youth Work
* Health & Social Care
* Sports Coaching / Development
* Or any people-focused degree
You’ll Bring:
* A positive, proactive attitude
* Resilience and emotional intelligence
* Confidence (or willingness to develop it)
* A genuine passion for supporting young people
* Availability Monday–Friday (8:30am–3:30pm)
* An Enhanced DBS (or willingness to apply)
No school experience? No problem.
We value mindset and potential over experience.
Your Career Starts Here
If you’re ready to gain real-world experience, make a lasting impact, and open doors to future opportunities — this is your first step.
Apply now and start your journey with Teaching Personnel, supporting schools across Stockport & Tameside.
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.
For details of our privacy policy, please visit the Teaching Personnel website.