SEMH Teaching Assistant

SEMH Teaching Assistant – Specialist School, Southampton

£88–£100 per day (depending on experience)
Location: Southampton
Start Date: September 2026
Hours: 08:30 – 15:30
Contract: Long-Term | Potential to Become Permanent

Are you a compassionate and resilient Teaching Assistant looking to make a real difference in the lives of young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs?

Supply Desk are currently recruiting for a dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistant to join a specialist school in Southampton from September 2026. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant, Youth Worker, Sports Coach or Behaviour Support Assistant who is passionate about helping students overcome barriers to learning and achieve their full potential.

As an SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with pupils who require additional emotional, behavioural and educational support. You will provide both classroom-based and 1:1 interventions, helping students to engage positively with learning, build confidence and develop effective strategies for managing their emotions and behaviour.

The successful candidate will play an important role in creating a safe, nurturing and supportive environment where students can thrive academically, socially and emotionally.

• Providing 1:1 and small-group support for students with SEMH needs.
• Supporting pupils who may display challenging behaviour or struggle with emotional regulation.
• Building positive and trusting relationships with students.
• Encouraging engagement, participation and independence in lessons.
• Supporting the implementation of behaviour support strategies and individual learning plans.
• Working collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs and pastoral teams.
• Promoting positive wellbeing, resilience and self-confidence.
• Helping to maintain a calm, supportive and inclusive learning environment.

• Specialist provision supporting students with SEMH needs.
• Highly supportive and experienced leadership team.
• Focus on personalised learning and positive relationship-building.
• Excellent training and professional development opportunities.
• Well-resourced environment designed to support student success.
• Easily accessible from Southampton and surrounding areas.
• On-site parking available.

• Experience working with children or young people in an educational, coaching, care or support setting.
• Understanding of SEMH, SEND or behaviour support strategies.
• A calm, patient and resilient approach.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• The ability to remain positive and professional in challenging situations.
• A genuine passion for supporting vulnerable young people.
• An Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to obtain one.

• Competitive daily rates of £88–£100 per day.
• Long-term opportunity with potential for a permanent position.
• Access to a wide range of CPD and training opportunities.
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement.
• Opportunities to gain valuable specialist SEN and SEMH experience.
• Refer a Friend Scheme – earn up to £150 for successful referrals.

If you are passionate about supporting young people with SEMH needs and are looking for a rewarding role within a specialist school, we''d love to hear from you.

Submit your CV today or contact the Supply Desk Hampshire team to find out more about this exciting opportunity starting in September 2026.