SEMH Teaching Assistant

SEMH Teaching Assistant
September 2026 Start

Full-Time | Long-Term Opportunity | Term-Time Only

Make a Positive Difference Every Day
Are you passionate about supporting young people and helping them overcome barriers to learning?

Do you have experience in care, youth work, coaching, the armed forces, emergency services, health and social care, or simply a natural ability to build positive relationships with children?

Leader Education is working in partnership with inclusive mainstream and specialist SEND schools across Leeds and Wakefield to recruit dedicated SEMH Classroom Assistants for the 2026/27 academic year.

This is a rewarding opportunity to support children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, autism, ADHD, and additional learning needs. You'll play a vital role in helping pupils build confidence, develop emotional resilience, and achieve success both inside and outside the classroom.

Whether you're an experienced education professional or looking to transfer your skills from another people-focused role, we want to hear from you.

The Role
As an SEMH Classroom Assistant, you will work closely with pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups, providing the support they need to engage in learning, regulate their emotions, and reach their potential.

Key responsibilities include:

Providing 1:1 and small-group support for pupils with SEMH and additional needs

Helping pupils remain engaged, focused, and motivated throughout the school day

Supporting emotional regulation and positive behaviour strategies

Building trusted, positive relationships with pupils

Adapting learning activities to suit individual needs and abilities

Encouraging social development, confidence, and independence

Working collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, therapists, and wider school staff

Contributing to a safe, structured, and nurturing learning environment

You may support pupils with:

Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)

ADHD

Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs

Moderate Learning Difficulties (MLD)

Physical and sensory needs

Some positions may involve personal care responsibilities.

Who We're Looking For
We're looking for individuals who are:

Patient, calm, and resilient

Caring, empathetic, and supportive

Passionate about helping children succeed

Confident building positive relationships and setting boundaries

Committed to making a long-term impact

Available to work full-time, Monday to Friday

We particularly welcome applicants with backgrounds in:

Youth Work

Care and Support Work

Residential Childcare

Health & Social Care

Sports Coaching

The Armed Forces or Cadet Forces

Emergency Services

Prison and Rehabilitation Services

Drama and Performing Arts

Creative Arts

Mentoring and Community Support

Previous school experience is beneficial but not essential. Full training and ongoing support are provided, making this an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to begin or develop a career supporting children and young people.

Why Join Leader Education?

Weekly pay through a compliant umbrella payroll

Free Team Teach training

Ongoing professional development opportunities

Dedicated support from an experienced education consultant

Long-term temporary placements with temp-to-perm opportunities

Full AWR compliance and employment support

Opportunities to gain valuable SEND and SEMH experience

Start Date
September 2026

All roles are subject to safer recruitment and compliance checks. An Enhanced DBS (Child Workforce or Child & Adult Workforce) is required. If you do not currently hold one, we can support you with the application process.

If you're looking for a role where you can genuinely change lives, develop valuable skills, and be part of a supportive school community, apply today.

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