Pastoral Teaching Assistant (SEMH)

A dynamic and supportive specialist SEMH secondary setting is looking for a proactive, emotionally intelligent and resilient SEMH / Behaviour Teaching Assistant. This role is ideal for someone with a pastoral background, youth work experience, or a passion for supporting teenagers who may struggle with behaviour, regulation and engagement in education. About the RoleIn this hands-on, relationship-focused position, you will: • Build strong, authentic relationships with pupils aged 11–16 to help them feel safe, understood and motivated • Provide 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with SEMH needs, behavioural challenges or complex backgrounds • Act as a positive role model, mentor and consistent adult presence • Use de-escalation strategies, clear boundaries and restorative approaches • Support pupils with emotional regulation, resilience, coping strategies and self-esteem • Help pupils access learning, manage routines and navigate difficult moments • Work closely with pastoral teams, behaviour leads and external agencies • Assist with behaviour plans, wellbeing support and targeted interventions About YouYou’ll be a strong match for this role if you: • Have experience in youth work, mentoring, SEMH/behaviour support or similar • Are calm, patient and emotionally resilient with a natural ability to build rapport with teenagers • Can remain consistent, reliable and confident when faced with challenging behaviour • Understand (or are keen to learn) trauma-informed practice, restorative work and de-escalation techniques • Are able to maintain strong professional boundaries and model positive behaviour • Want to help young people feel valued, supported and capable of success Why Join This Secondary SEMH Setting? • Excellent pastoral and wellbeing support for staff and pupils • Ongoing training in SEMH, trauma-informed practice, de-escalation and mentoring • A tight-knit, supportive team who genuinely care • Opportunities for progression into pastoral, behaviour or safeguarding roles • The chance to make a significant impact on young people who need a positive adult more than most Apply now or contact your local Reed office and ask to speak with Sophie Lamont in our education team.