SEMH Specialist Teaching Assistant

About the role

We are seeking resilient and dedicated SEMH Specialist Teaching Assistants to support secondary school students with social, emotional and mental health needs across London. The role involves working one‑to‑one or with small groups in mainstream classrooms, alternative provision or nurture settings.

Key responsibilities

• Support students with SEMH needs across Key Stages 3 and 4.
• Build positive, trusting relationships to enhance engagement and wellbeing.
• Implement behaviour support strategies and de‑escalation techniques.
• Assist pupils in managing emotions, routines and classroom expectations.
• Support learning activities and help pupils stay focused and on task.
• Collaborate closely with teachers, SENCOs and pastoral teams.

Required profile

• Experience working with young people who have SEMH or behavioural needs.
• Calm, patient and resilient with a consistent, supportive approach.
• Strong behaviour management and de‑escalation abilities.
• Confidence working in a secondary school environment.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills.
• Hold (or be willing to obtain) an enhanced DBS check.
• Experience in schools, alternative provision, youth work or care settings is highly desirable.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive daily rates of pay.
• Opportunities across a range of secondary schools and alternative provisions.
• Flexible work to suit your availability.
• Long‑term placements with potential for permanent roles.
• Ongoing support from a dedicated Hays Education consultant.
• Access to CPD and behaviour/SEND‑focused training.