Teaching Assistant – SEMH Support

About the role

Academics is recruiting a full‑time Teaching Assistant to support a specialist SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) school in Canterbury. The role offers the chance to make a tangible difference for young people who need additional guidance both inside and outside the classroom.

Key responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small‑group support to pupils with SEMH needs.
• Build trusting relationships and act as a consistent adult presence.
• Assist with behaviour regulation and encourage positive engagement in learning.
• Collaborate with teachers, therapists and other support staff.
• Promote pupils' social, emotional and academic development.

Required profile

• Patience, resilience and compassion.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building abilities.
• Confidence in supporting pupils who may display challenging behaviours.
• Genuine passion for helping vulnerable young people succeed.
• Willingness to hold or obtain an Enhanced DBS on the Update Service.

Required skills

• Experience as a Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant, Behaviour Mentor or Youth Worker.
• Background in SEMH, SEN or pastoral support.
• Relevant qualifications or degree in psychology (optional but welcomed).

What we offer

• Full‑time, long‑term placement in a specialist setting.
• Ongoing support from a dedicated consultant.
• Valuable SEMH experience to enhance your career.
• Competitive daily rate.
• A dynamic role where no two days are the same.