Job description
SEMH Teaching Assistant
Location: York
Salary: £88 – £110 per day
Contract: Full-Time
Start Date: January 2026
GSL Education are recruiting a dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistant to support pupils within a specialist secondary alternative provision in the York area. This role is ideal for someone passionate about supporting young people with social, emotional and mental health needs.
About the School
This specialist provision supports secondary-aged pupils who have faced barriers to learning in mainstream education. Learners benefit from small class sizes, consistent routines and a therapeutic approach that prioritises emotional regulation, engagement and personal development.
SEMH Teaching Assistant Responsibilities
* Provide 1:1 and small-group support for pupils with SEMH needs.
* Support emotional regulation and behaviour management strategies.
* Assist with personalised learning and intervention plans.
* Encourage positive engagement with learning and routines.
* Work collaboratively with teachers, keyworkers and pastoral staff.
Requirements
* Experience supporting pupils with SEMH or behavioural needs.
* Understanding of trauma-informed and restorative approaches.
* Calm, resilient and empathetic approach.
* Ability to build strong, trusting relationships.
* Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to apply.
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 an enhanced DBS on the update service.