Are you passionate about making a lasting difference in the lives of young people?
Do you have the resilience, empathy, and commitment to support children who’ve faced trauma and adversity?
We’re recruiting for a Teaching Assistant to join a highly nurturing, trauma-informed specialist school in Cumbria. The school caters primarily for secondary-aged pupils with SEMH needs, many of whom are in care or have experienced significant childhood trauma. This unique setting is part of a larger organisation that includes children’s homes, offering integrated, therapeutic care and education for its students.
About the School
* Independent specialist provision with small class sizes and high staff-to-student ratios
* Supports pupils aged 11–16 with SEMH, SEND, and other complex needs
* Trauma-informed, relationship-centred practice at the heart of everything they do
* Classes operate in a primary-style, nurture-based model, tailored to each learner’s needs
* Close collaboration between education and care teams
The Role
* Support students in the classroom alongside the teacher
* Deliver 1:1 and small group interventions focused on emotional regulation, communication, and academic development
* Build trusting, therapeutic relationships with young people
* Help manage behaviour using de-escalation and positive support strategies
* Be a consistent, calm presence – celebrating progress in all its forms
What We’re Looking For
* Experience working with children or young people in care, education, or residential settings
* Understanding of SEMH, attachment needs, and trauma-informed practice
* A positive, resilient, and empathetic approach
* Ability to build meaningful, professional relationships with vulnerable learners
* Strong communication skills and the ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team
Attitude and approach are more important than qualifications – if you’re passionate, reliable, and child-centred, we want to hear from you.
Contract Details
* Temp-to-perm contract: £95–£110/day
* Transition to permanent contract (after 4–6 weeks): £21,292 per annum
* Ongoing CPD and training provided
* Supportive leadership and well-established team
Interested?
If this unique specialist environment could be for you, send your CV to i.withey@linqhc.co.uk, or apply today!