Graduate behaviour support assistant (sen / semh) - bristol

Job Description

Graduate Behaviour Support Assistant (SEN / SEMH) – Bristol

Bristol | Full-Time | Term-Time Only | Long-Term RolesImmediate Starts | Training & Clear Career Progression

Are you a recent graduate looking to build a meaningful career working with young people?

We are recruiting Graduate Behaviour Support Assistants to work across specialist SEN and SEMH schools in Bristol. These are long-term, full-time roles offering hands-on experience supporting students with additional needs, alongside structured training and clear progression opportunities.

This is an excellent opportunity for graduates considering careers in educational psychology, teaching, social work, youth justice or mental health.

The Role

As a Graduate Behaviour Support Assistant, you will work closely with pupils who require additional support to engage with education and manage their behaviour.

You will support students on a 1:1 basis and in small groups, helping them develop emotional regulation, confidence and positive engagement in lessons.

Pupils you support may have:

• Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs
• Autism (ASC), ADHD or communication differences
• Anxiety, low confidence or attachment needs
• Behavioural challenges or disengagement from school

Some students may present behaviours that challenge. This role requires resilience, patience and a calm, consistent approach, but offers highly rewarding outcomes as students build trust and progress.

Working in Bristol SEMH Schools

You will be placed within specialist schools across Bristol, matched to your experience and career goals.

These environments typically offer:

• Small class sizes and strong staff support
• Dedicated behaviour and pastoral teams
• Structured routines that help students succeed
• Opportunities to learn from experienced SEN professionals

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small group support
• Support behaviour strategies and emotional regulation
• Build positive, consistent relationships with pupils
• Help pupils engage with learning and daily routines
• Work closely with teachers and pastoral teams
• Contribute to a safe, structured and supportive environment

Graduate Profile

We are looking for graduates who:

• Hold a degree (Psychology, Education, Criminology or related fields are particularly relevant)
• Have experience supporting young people (e.g. tutoring, coaching, mentoring, care work)
• Are interested in behaviour, mental health or SEN
• Are resilient, patient and motivated to make a difference

Previous school experience is beneficial, but not essential.

Training & Career Pathway

This role provides a strong foundation for long-term careers, including:

• Funded training in SEN, behaviour and safeguarding
• CPD including behaviour management and de-escalation
• Hands-on experience with complex needs
• Progression opportunities into:
  • Behaviour Mentor roles
  • Teaching Assistant / HLTA roles
  • Teacher training pathways
  • Further study in psychology or related fields

What You Will Receive

• Weekly pay via PAYE (no umbrella deductions)
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Support from experienced consultants and school staff
• Opportunities for permanent roles

Why Apply?

• Gain valuable, relevant experience for competitive graduate career paths
• Work in a role where you can see real progress and impact
• Build practical skills in behaviour support and SEN
• Be part of a supportive and structured school environment

Apply Now – Graduate Behaviour Support Assistant (Bristol)

Apply now to be considered for immediate roles across Bristol SEMH schools.Interviews and trial days are available.

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.