Job Description

Specialist Teaching Assistant (TA) - Complex SEMH / SEND | Wigan
Location: Wigan, Greater Manchester
Salary: £90 - £110 per day
Start Date: Immediate or January 2026
Contract: Full-time, long-term (with potential for permanent appointment)

Join our dedicated team in Wigan as a Specialist Teaching Assistant (TA) supporting students with complex Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This is an exceptional opportunity for a resilient, compassionate professional who is passionate about transforming the lives of young people through education and care.

The Role

A supportive and forward-thinking SEMH school in Wigan is seeking a dedicated, full-time Specialist TA to join their inclusion team. You will play a vital role in supporting students with complex needs who require intensive, tailored support to access learning, build confidence, and thrive emotionally and socially.

Key Responsibilities:

  • 1:1 and Small Group Intervention: Deliver targeted support for pupils with complex SEMH/SEND, including managing challenging behaviour, anxiety, and developmental needs.
  • Emotional and Behavioural Support: Implement positive behaviour management and de-escalation strategies to foster emotional regulation and resilience.
  • EHCP Implementation: Collaborate with the SENCO and teaching staff to ensure all provisions in each student's Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) are fully met.
  • Curriculum Access: Adapt learning materials and differentiate activities to promote full inclusion and progress.
  • Mentorship and Advocacy: Act as a trusted mentor and advocate, building positive relationships with students, parents, and external professionals.

What We Offer

  • Competitive Salary: Pay is to scale and based on experience.
  • Start Date: January 2026 or sooner for the right candidate.
  • Location: SEMH school in Wigan, Greater Manchester.
  • Professional Development: Access to specialist training such as Trauma-Informed Practice, Team Teach/Positive Handling (desirable), and bespoke SEND courses.
  • Supportive Environment: Join a team dedicated to nurturing and empowering young people to reach their potential.

Essential Requirements & Skills

We are looking for a Specialist Teaching Assistant who has:

  • Proven experience supporting children or young people with SEMH and/or complex SEND (Autism, ADHD, challenging behaviour, etc.)
  • A relevant qualification (e.g., Level 3 Teaching Assistant, Youth Work, or equivalent experience in SEN support)
  • Strong resilience, empathy, and a calm, consistent approach
  • Knowledge of positive behaviour management and de-escalation strategies
  • A firm commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
  • An Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply for one)

If you are an experienced SEN TA, Behaviour Mentor, or Youth Worker looking for a truly rewarding role in Wigan, we would love to hear from you!

Click 'Apply Now' to be considered for this great position as a Teaching Assistant within Wigan, or for more information about the role, contact Christina on 01772 977 333 or christina.grindy@twrecruitment.com