SEMH Teaching Assistant – Preston Location: Preston, Lancashire
Contract: Full-time / Part-time / Long-term
Start Date: ASAP
About the Role A school in Preston is looking for a SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) Teaching Assistant to support pupils with emotional, behavioural, and social needs. This role is ideal for someone with experience in support work, care, or youth work who wants to make a real difference in children’s lives.
Key Responsibilities
Provide 1:1 and small group SEMH support to pupils
Help pupils manage behaviour, emotions, and engagement with learning
Implement behaviour plans and de-escalation strategies
Act as a positive and consistent role model
Support learning activities under teacher guidance
Assist pupils during transitions, breaktimes, and unstructured periods
Work closely with teachers, SENCO, and pastoral staff
Record progress and provide feedback to staff
Follow safeguarding and school policies at all times
Essential Experience
Experience working with children or young people with SEMH, challenging behaviour, or trauma
Calm, patient, and resilient approach
Strong communication and relationship-building skills
Ability to remain positive in challenging situations
Commitment to safeguarding
Desirable
Team Teach or de-escalation training
Experience in alternative provision, care, or youth work
Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification
What the School Offers
Supportive leadership and pastoral team
Training and professional development
Rewarding opportunity to positively impact pupils’ lives