Classroom Support Assistant (SEMH) – Horsham Location: Horsham Salary: £88.92 – £95 per day Contract Type: Full-Time (Term Time Only) Start Date: ASAP About the School We are a small, nurturing co-educational school based in Horsham, supporting up to 71 students aged 5–18 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Our mission is to provide a safe, structured, and inspiring environment where every pupil can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our dedicated staff work collaboratively to build trusting relationships, foster resilience, and equip students with the skills they need to succeed both in school and beyond. About the Role As a Classroom Support Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting students with SEMH needs across the school. You will work closely with teachers, the SENCO, and therapeutic staff to help deliver a consistent, supportive approach that promotes engagement, emotional regulation, and personal development. The role will involve both 1:1 support and small group interventions, adapting your approach to meet the individual needs of each pupil and help them access learning in a positive, structured way. Key Responsibilities Provide 1:1 and classroom-based support for pupils with SEMH needs Help implement individual education plans (IEPs) and behaviour support plans (BSPs) Support students in developing emotional regulation, communication, and social interaction skills Assist teachers with lesson delivery and differentiated learning activities Encourage independence, confidence, and positive engagement in lessons Foster a calm, safe learning environment and support the use of de-escalation strategies Record observations and contribute to progress reviews Collaborate with teachers, SENCO, and pastoral staff to ensure consistent and effective support Supervise pupils during non-classroom times where needed Person Specification Experience working with children or young people with SEMH or additional learning needs (Preferred) Understanding of trauma-informed practice and restorative approaches Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build positive relationships Resilience, patience, and a calm, empathetic approach Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection procedures Safeguarding This role requires a thorough understanding of safeguarding and child protection. Successful applicants must: Hold or be willing to apply for an Enhanced DBS certificate registered on the Update Service Provide references covering the past two years Have the right to work in the UK Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection and that successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks including providing an enhanced DBS on the update service, or completing an application for a new check. Benefits Supportive, close-knit school community Opportunities for professional development and training in SEMH support Rewarding work making a real difference to young people’s lives How to Apply For more information or to register your interest in ‘SEMH classroom support’ role, or to be considered, please click ‘apply now’ to submit your full and up-to-date CV, and one of our dedicated consultants, will be in touch. GSL Education is an ethical, independent recruitment agency which aims to provide quality teaching and support staff in schools throughout Sussex.