Job Description

Teaching Assistant (SEMH) - Mental Health Focus

Location: Corby, Northamptonshire
Position: Full-time / Part-time (term-time only considered)
Start Date: As soon as possible

About the Role

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Teaching Assistant to join our specialist SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) school in the Corby area. This role is ideal for someone with a strong background in mental health, youth work, or therapeutic support who is passionate about helping young people overcome barriers to learning.

You will work closely with teachers and the pastoral team to support pupils with complex emotional, behavioural, and mental health needs, helping them to feel safe, regulated, and ready to learn.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide 1:1 and small group support to pupils with SEMH needs

  • Support pupils' emotional regulation, behaviour, and engagement in learning

  • Implement strategies such as de-escalation, trauma-informed approaches, and positive behaviour support

  • Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils

  • Assist with the delivery of tailored learning activities

  • Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, therapists, and external professionals

  • Support pupils' social development and wellbeing throughout the school day

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

  • Experience working with children or young people with SEMH, mental health needs, or challenging behaviour

  • A background in mental health, psychology, youth work, counselling, social care, or similar (formal qualification desirable but not essential)

  • A calm, patient, and resilient approach

  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills

  • A genuine passion for supporting vulnerable learners

  • The ability to remain consistent and professional in challenging situations

Desirable (but not essential)

  • Team Teach or similar behaviour management training

  • Experience in a SEMH, SEN, PRU, or alternative provision setting

  • Mental Health First Aid training

  • Relevant qualifications (e.g. Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant, Youth Work, Psychology, Health & Social Care)

What We Offer

  • A supportive and experienced team

  • Ongoing training and professional development, particularly around mental health and trauma-informed practice

  • The opportunity to make a real difference in young people's lives

  • A rewarding role within a specialist educational setting

Safeguarding

This role is subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.