SEMH Teaching Assistant (Primary)

GUARDIAN SELECTION LIMITED; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job description

Job Title: SEMH Teaching Assistant (Primary)

SEMH Teaching Assistant (Primary)
Location:Newcastle
Pay Rate: £84 - £108 per day (dependent on experience)
Start Date: Immediate
Contract Type: Daily Supply | Long-Term Placements Available

Are you passionate about helping young learners overcome emotional and behavioural challenges? Do you want to make a genuine difference in a child’s life? This could be the perfect opportunity for you.

GSL Education is seeking a compassionate and resilient SEMH Teaching Assistant (Primary) to join a supportive school in Newcastle. You’ll be supporting children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, helping them thrive in a safe, structured, and nurturing environment.

About the Role:
As an SEMH Teaching Assistant, you’ll work closely with teachers, SENCOs, and other support staff to provide personalised support to pupils facing emotional or behavioural difficulties. Your goal will be to help students build emotional regulation, develop social skills, and access their learning with confidence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide 1:1 and small group support to pupils with SEMH needs
• Assist in the implementation of personalised learning and behaviour plans
• Help students manage emotions and adopt positive coping strategies
• Create a calm, structured learning environment
• Deliver targeted interventions focused on emotional well-being and resilience
• Promote positive relationships and build trust with pupils
• Support accessibility and inclusion in daily lessons
• Track pupil progress and communicate with the wider staff team

What We’re Looking For:

• A relevant qualification in education, psychology, or a related field (e.g., CACHE Level 3, NVQ)
• Experience supporting children with SEMH needs in a school, alternative provision, or youth work setting
• Understanding of the primary curriculum and how to adapt it for pupils with SEMH needs
• Knowledge of behaviour management strategies and de-escalation techniques
• A trauma-informed and attachment-aware approach
• Patience, empathy, and resilience in challenging situations
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively
• An up-to-date CV (covering the last 10 years with no unexplained gaps) and an enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)

What We Offer:

• Competitive daily rates, reflective of your experience
• Access to a variety of fulfilling opportunities in supportive schools
• Ongoing support from a dedicated GSL consultant
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young learners

Safeguarding Commitment:
GSL Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be subject to background checks and must hold (or be willing to apply for) an enhanced DBS registered to the Update Service.

Interested?
Click ‘Apply Now’ to submit your updated CV.

Referral Bonus! Know someone perfect for this role? Refer them and earn £100 upon a successful placement!

Let’s support every child to reach their potential—together.