Job description
SEN Teaching Assistant – SEMH (Southampton SO32)
Our client SEN school in Southampton (SO32) is seeking calm, resilient, and nurturing SEN Teaching Assistants to join their specialist team. The school supports pupils in Key Stages 2-4 who present with a range of social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, often alongside additional learning difficulties, communication challenges, or behavioural barriers that impact engagement and wellbeing.
This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about helping young people build confidence, develop emotional regulation skills, and re‑engage positively with learning in a therapeutic, supportive environment.
The school also welcomes applications from candidates seeking flexible work, including day‑to‑day, short‑term, and long‑term supply opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
1. Providing consistent, trauma‑informed support to pupils with SEMH needs, including those who may struggle with emotional regulation, anxiety, low self‑esteem, or challenging behaviour
2. Supporting pupils through difficult moments, helping them manage triggers, transitions, and social interactions
3. Encouraging engagement through practical, creative, and differentiated learning activities tailored to individual needs
4. Promoting emotional wellbeing, safety, and positive behaviour throughout the school day
5. Helping pupils develop communication skills, resilience, social understanding, independence, and coping strategies
6. Building trusting, stable relationships using calm, clear, and empathetic communication
7. Working collaboratively with teachers, pastoral teams, behaviour specialists, and external professionals to deliver holistic, person‑centred support
Contract Details
8. Location: Southampton SO32
9. Position: SEN Teaching Assistant – SEMH
10. Start Date: September 2026
11. Contract Type: Full‑time with temp‑to‑perm pathways available; ad‑hoc supply roles also offered
12. Working Hours: 08:30am – 15:30pm
13. Pay Rate: From £ per hour
Requirements
You must:
14. Have the Right to Work in the UK
15. Hold an enhanced child‑barred list DBS on the Update Service (or be willing to apply)
16. Provide professional references covering the last 24 months
17. Hold a Level 2/3 qualification in childcare, education, or health & social care or have relevant experience supporting young people with SEMH or complex behavioural needs
What We Offer
18. Free accredited CPD, including safeguarding, behaviour support, and de‑escalation
19. Access to a specialist in‑house Training & Development Team
20. Ongoing support from a dedicated SEN consultant
21. A warm, inclusive school environment with strong staff culture and opportunities for progression
Refer a Friend
Know someone who would thrive in a specialist SEMH setting? You can earn a referral bonus for every successful recommendation (T&Cs apply).