Job Description

Join Tradewind Recruitment as a Flexible SEMH Teaching Assistant!

At Tradewind Recruitment, we pride ourselves on being a supportive, people-focused agency that truly values the educators we work with. Whether you're looking to gain experience, make a difference in specialist settings, or build flexibility into your week, we're here to match you with roles where you can thrive and feel appreciated.

We are currently recruiting a flexible SEMH Teaching Assistant to support specialist SEMH provisions in Bristol and South Gloucestershire that cater to pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and additional learning challenges. This is a flexible role with a mix of part-time, ad-hoc and longer-term opportunities to suit your availability.

About the Role
You'll be working with children and young people who may have experienced trauma, anxiety, attachment difficulties, behavioural challenges or complex SEMH needs. Your role will involve building positive relationships, using de-escalation strategies, and offering both academic and emotional support in small group or 1:1 settings.

Rather than a traditional classroom approach, these schools and provisions use personalised timetables, therapeutic support and practical, hands-on learning to
re-engage pupils and help them progress socially, emotionally and academically.

You'll be a great fit if you:

  • Have experience or interest in SEMH, alternative provisions, or trauma-informed practice
  • Are resilient, calm and confident supporting challenging behaviours
  • Can build trust and rapport with pupils who may struggle in mainstream settings
  • Are adaptable and happy to work across different classes and age groups
  • Are available on a flexible basis (full-time or part-time)

Ideal backgrounds include: youth work, mentoring, psychology graduates, behaviour support, sports coaching, residential care or mainstream/alternative education support.

Role Details

  • Location: Bristol & South Gloucestershire
  • Hours: 8:30am - 3:30pm, term-time only
  • Pay: £90 to £105 per day
  • Availability Options: Full-time or part-time
  • Start Date: Immediate starts with permanent potential


Why Join Tradewind?

At Tradewind, we don't just place candidates - we champion them. Here's what you can expect:

  • Your income matters: We'll always secure the best rate for your skills
  • Your development matters: 2,500+ FREE CPD courses via The National College
  • Your flexibility matters: Roles that fit your lifestyle and goals
  • Your wellbeing matters: Sunday Times Top 100 Employer four years running
  • Your values matter: We are an Equal Opportunities Employer and truly inclusive

If you're passionate about helping young people overcome barriers as a SEMH Teaching Assistant and want flexibility in your working week, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today or contact Tradewind Recruitment to find out more about joining our SEMH support team.