Location: Portsmouth
Start Date: ASAP
Contract: Long-term
Salary: £82.50 – £95 per day (depending on experience)
Hours: 08:30 – 15:30
About the Role
We are seeking a resilient and compassionate SEMH Teaching Assistant to join a specialist provision in the Portsmouth area. This role is ideal for someone passionate about supporting young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and helping them succeed both academically and emotionally.
You will play a key role in building positive relationships, supporting behaviour regulation, and helping students engage with learning in a structured and nurturing environment. The role would particularly suit candidates with experience in SEMH settings, behaviour support, youth work, mentoring, or alternative provision.
About the School
This specialist setting supports pupils aged 11–16 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs and associated behavioural challenges. The provision is known for its strong pastoral focus, therapeutic approach, and commitment to helping students re-engage with education.
Staff work closely as a team to provide consistent support and clear routines for learners who benefit from structure, patience, and positive role models. The school offers a supportive leadership team and a collaborative working environment.
Key Responsibilities
Support students with SEMH needs on a one-to-one and small group basis
Assist teachers in delivering engaging and accessible lessons
Implement behaviour support and de-escalation strategies
Promote emotional regulation, resilience, and positive coping skills
Support students during transitions and unstructured times
Help maintain a calm, safe, and consistent learning environment
Build strong, trusting relationships with students
Adapt support approaches to meet individual needs
Ideal Candidate
Experience working with children or young people with SEMH or behavioural needs
Background in youth work, mentoring, care, sports coaching, or alternative provision (desirable)
Confident managing challenging behaviour calmly and consistently
Patient, resilient, and empathetic
Strong communication and teamwork skills
Passionate about supporting vulnerable learners
Qualifications
GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths
Relevant SEMH or behaviour support experience highly desirable
Team Teach or similar training advantageous (training can be provided)
SEN experience beneficial but not essential
What We Offer
Competitive daily pay (£82.50 – £95)
Ongoing training and professional development
Supportive school and agency team
Contributory pension scheme
Opportunity to make a meaningful difference
How to Apply
Please visit to apply.
Due to the volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Refer a Friend Scheme: Earn up to £150 collectively when you refer a Teaching Assistant or Teacher.
Supply Desk is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check and meet Safer Recruitment standards
Salary description
£82.50 - £95.00 per day