Job Description

SEMH Specialist Teaching Assistant - Northampton

Via Tradewind Recruitment

Tradewind Recruitment is currently seeking a dedicated and experienced SEMH Specialist Teaching Assistant to work across a range of specialist education settings in Northampton. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate individual who is committed to supporting children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and helping them achieve positive outcomes both academically and emotionally.

You will be working in a variety of specialist schools, including alternative provisions and special schools, supporting pupils who may present with challenging behaviour, emotional regulation difficulties, trauma-related needs, or additional learning barriers. The role requires resilience, empathy, and a proactive approach to behaviour management, as well as the ability to build strong, trusting relationships with pupils who may have had negative experiences of education previously.

The successful candidate must have previous experience working with children or young people with SEMH needs. This experience may have been gained in a school, PRU, special school, youth work, care setting, or similar environment. You will be expected to support pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups, assist with de-escalation strategies, implement behaviour support plans, and work closely with teachers and pastoral teams to maintain a safe and structured learning environment.

This role is offered through Tradewind Recruitment, one of the UK's leading education recruitment agencies. Tradewind provides ongoing support, access to CPD opportunities, competitive daily rates, and a dedicated consultant who understands your experience and career goals.

The ideal candidate will:

  • Have proven experience supporting SEMH needs

  • Be calm, patient, and consistent in their approach

  • Have strong communication and teamwork skills

  • Be adaptable to working across multiple specialist settings

  • Hold (or be willing to obtain) an enhanced DBS on the update service

If you are passionate about making a real difference to the lives of vulnerable learners and are looking for flexible work across specialist schools in Northampton, we would love to hear from you.