Learning Support Assistant – Primary SEMH Specialist Setting
Location: Andover, Hampshire
Hours: Full-time, term time only
Pay: Competitive hourly rate | Temporary-to-permanent opportunities available
A specialist primary provision for pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs in the Andover area is seeking to appoint committed and resilient Learning Support Assistants to join its dedicated team. The setting supports primary-aged pupils (typically 5–11 years) who present with a range of SEMH needs, often alongside additional learning difficulties, autism spectrum conditions, attachment needs, and speech and communication challenges.
Pupils may display challenging behaviour, and the setting provides a highly structured, consistent, and nurturing environment that prioritises emotional regulation, positive relationships, and re-engagement with learning.
This role is particularly well suited to individuals with previous experience supporting children with SEMH needs or challenging behaviour. However, applicants with relevant transferable experience from sectors such as behaviour support, care, youth work, mental health services, residential settings, or family support are also encouraged to apply. Full training and ongoing support will be provided.
Key responsibilities include:
* Providing in-class and one-to-one support to primary-aged pupils with SEMH needs
* Supporting pupils to manage emotions, behaviour, and engagement with learning
* Implementing behaviour support strategies and individual support plans
* Working collaboratively with teachers, SEN staff, and external professionals
* Contributing to a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment
Candidate requirements:
* Experience working with children or young people, ideally within an SEMH or behaviour support context
* The ability to remain calm, patient, and consistent when supporting challenging behaviour
* A genuine commitment to supporting pupils with complex emotional and behavioural needs
* Strong resilience, reliability, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team
What the setting offers:
* A supportive and collaborative staff team
* A specialist primary SEMH environment focused on emotional development and positive behaviour
* Ongoing training and professional development opportunities, including behaviour management strategies
* Temporary-to-permanent opportunities with potential for long-term progression
Safeguarding
In line with safeguarding requirements, all applicants must hold an Enhanced DBS certificate for the Child Workforce registered on the Update Service, or be willing to apply for one.
This is a rewarding opportunity for individuals seeking a meaningful role supporting primary-aged children with SEMH needs and challenging behaviour within a specialist educational setting.
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.