Job Description

Are you a calm, resilient, and dedicated Teaching Assistant looking to make a lasting difference for young people in Blackpool?

We are seeking a proactive and supportive SEMH Teaching Assistant to join a dedicated team in Blackpool.

In this role, you will work closely with pupils who face barriers to learning due to Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, neurodiverse profiles (such as ASC and ADHD), attachment difficulties, or trauma. You will provide essential 1:1 and small-group support, helping pupils manage their emotions, develop confidence, and re-engage with their education.

The Role & Key Responsibilities

  • Provide dedicated 1:1 and small-group learning support to pupils with complex SEMH and behavioural needs.

  • Use positive behaviour management, trauma-informed practices, and de-escalation strategies to keep classroom environments calm and productive.

  • Support students with emotional regulation, providing structured sensory breaks and reflection time when needed.

  • Differentiate learning tasks alongside the classroom teacher to make lessons accessible and engaging.

  • Act as a positive, consistent role model, building trusting and supportive relationships with hard-to-reach learners.

  • Liaise with the SENCO, pastoral team, and class teachers to track pupil progress, wellbeing, and behaviour targets.

Candidate Profile & Requirements

  • Experience: Background supporting young people with SEMH, additional needs, or challenging behaviour in an Alternative Provision, PRU, specialist SEND school, mainstream school, or youth/residential setting.

  • De-escalation Skills: Calm under pressure with strong de-escalation skills; Team Teach, MAPA, or equivalent positive handling training is highly desirable (or willingness to train).

  • Mindset: Patient, resilient, empathetic, and able to offer pupils a fresh start every single day.

  • Qualifications: Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant qualification, youth work certificate, or relevant degree/experience.

  • Safeguarding: An Enhanced Child Workforce DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to process one immediately) and a full, verifiable work history.

  • Location: Commutable across Blackpool and the Fylde Coast (FY1-FY4, Thornton-Cleveleys, Lytham, St Annes).

Why Choose This Role?

  • Meaningful Daily Impact: Help vulnerable children build resilience and rediscover their confidence in learning.

  • Long-Term Stability: A consistent, full-time school placement with a clear pathway to permanent employment.

  • Standard School Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm, term-time only-no shift work, evenings, or weekends.

  • Weekly PAYE Pay: Transparent, reliable daily pay paid directly every Friday with no umbrella company deductions.

How to Apply

If you have the patience, energy, and dedication to support young people with SEMH needs in Blackpool, apply today.

Click 'Apply Now' with an up-to-date CV, or get in touch directly to discuss trial days and school visits.

SEMH Teaching Assistant, SEMH Support, SEND TA, Behaviour Support, Team Teach, Alternative Provision, PRU, Special Needs, Blackpool, FY1, FY2, FY3, FY4, Fylde Coast, Term-Time Only, PAYE