Full-Time Teaching Assistant – Primary SEMH School – Poole
Permanent Position | Progression Opportunities | Immediate Start
GSL Education are proud to be working in partnership with a specialist primary SEMH school in Poole, supporting them in their search for a dedicated and resilient Teaching Assistant to join their team on a permanent basis.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a nurturing and highly supportive setting that caters for primary-aged pupils (Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2) with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, often alongside additional needs such as ADHD, ASD, trauma-related behaviours and attachment difficulties. The school provides small class sizes, structured routines and therapeutic approaches to help pupils re-engage with education and achieve positive outcomes.
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The Role
As a Teaching Assistant, you will:
* Provide 1:1 and small group support to pupils with SEMH needs
* Support pupils in managing challenging behaviour using positive behaviour strategies
* Build strong, trusting relationships to help pupils feel safe and secure
* Work collaboratively with teachers, pastoral staff and external professionals
* Promote emotional regulation, resilience and social development
* Contribute to a structured, consistent and nurturing learning environment
This role would suit someone patient, empathetic and consistent, who understands that behaviour is communication and is committed to making a lasting impact.
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Who We’re Looking For
We are seeking individuals who:
* Have experience supporting children or young people with challenging behaviour, SEMH, SEN, youth work, or care backgrounds
OR
* Have strong transferable skills from roles in support work, residential care, youth mentoring, sports coaching or mental health settings
This position is particularly well suited to graduates with degrees in:
* Psychology
* Health & Social Care
* Criminology
* Education Studies
* Childhood Studies
* Or other related fields
If you are considering a future career in Educational Psychology, Teaching, Social Work or Clinical Practice, this is an excellent foundation role.
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What the School Offers
* Permanent contract after a probation period
* Clear progression pathways (including teacher training and specialist roles)
* A supportive and experienced leadership team
* Ongoing CPD and training in behaviour management and SEMH strategies
* Small class sizes and a strong team ethos
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Why Choose GSL Education?
At GSL Education, we are renowned for matching educators to their dream roles and ensuring long-term success. Our experienced consultants have extensive backgrounds within education and understand the importance of finding the right school environment for both candidate and setting.
You will receive:
* A dedicated consultant who will guide you from application to placement
* Honest advice and detailed school insight
* Interview preparation and ongoing support
* A focus on securing long-term, sustainable placements
We pride ourselves on building careers, not just filling vacancies.
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If you are passionate about supporting children with SEMH needs and are ready to take the next step in your education career, we would love to hear from you.
Apply today to be considered for this rewarding opportunity in Poole.