SEMH Teaching Assistant / HLTA - Support Secondary-Aged Pupils to Succeed | Woodbridge Area

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Tradewind Recruitment is working with a specialist education setting in the Woodbridge area to recruit caring, resilient and committed Teaching Assistants and Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTAs) to support secondary-aged pupils with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.

This is an opportunity to join a setting that supports young people who may have experienced challenges in mainstream education and need a more tailored, supportive approach to learning.

Whether you're an experienced SEN Teaching Assistant, an HLTA confident delivering pre-planned lessons, or someone with relevant experience supporting young people with additional needs, this could be a rewarding next step.

About the Role

Working with secondary-aged pupils, you will help create a safe, structured and positive environment where young people can develop confidence, build relationships and re-engage with education.

Depending on your experience and whether you join as a TA or HLTA, responsibilities may include:

• Providing one-to-one and small-group support to pupils with SEMH and additional needs.

• Building positive, trusting relationships with young people who may struggle with emotional regulation, engagement or behaviour.

• Supporting pupils affected by trauma, anxiety and other barriers to learning.

• Promoting positive behaviour, clear boundaries and consistent expectations.

• Helping pupils develop emotional resilience, social skills and independence.

• Working alongside teachers and colleagues to adapt support to individual needs.

• Encouraging participation in lessons and helping pupils experience success in their learning.

• For HLTA positions: delivering pre-planned lessons and activities, maintaining engagement and supporting continuity of learning in the teacher's absence or when required.

What We're Looking For

• A patient, empathetic and resilient approach.

• Confidence building relationships with secondary-aged pupils.

• An understanding of SEMH needs and the challenges some young people face in education.

• The ability to remain calm, consistent and encouraging in challenging situations.

• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

• Previous experience in a school, SEN provision, alternative provision, youth work, care or a sim