SEMH Teaching Assistant – Preston Location: Preston, Lancashire
Contract: Full-time / Part-time / Long-term
Start Date: ASAP

About the Role A school in Preston is looking for a SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) Teaching Assistant to support pupils with emotional, behavioural, and social needs. This role is ideal for someone with experience in support work, care, or youth work who wants to make a real difference in children’s lives.

Key Responsibilities *Provide 1:1 and small group SEMH support to pupils


*Help pupils manage behaviour, emotions, and engagement with learning


*Implement behaviour plans and de-escalation strategies


*Act as a positive and consistent role model


*Support learning activities under teacher guidance


*Assist pupils during transitions, breaktimes, and unstructured periods


*Work closely with teachers, SENCO, and pastoral staff


*Record progress and provide feedback to staff


*Follow safeguarding and school policies at all times


Essential Experience *Experience working with children or young people with SEMH, challenging behaviour, or trauma


*Calm, patient, and resilient approach


*Strong communication and relationship-building skills


*Ability to remain positive in challenging situations


*Commitment to safeguarding


Desirable *Team Teach or de-escalation training


*Experience in alternative provision, care, or youth work


*Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification


What the School Offers *Supportive leadership and pastoral team


*Training and professional development


*Rewarding opportunity to positively impact pupils’ lives