Job description
Job Title: SEMH Teaching Assistant
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne
Salary: £90 - £110 per day (depending on experience)
Start Date: September 2026
Contract Type: Full-time | Long-term Opportunity
Empowering students with SEMH needs through understanding, patience, and creativity.
Are you passionate about supporting young people who need extra encouragement, understanding, and emotional support to succeed in education?
GSL Education are seeking a dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistant to join schools across Newcastle upon Tyne from September 2026. This rewarding role is perfect for someone who enjoys making a difference in the lives of young people and understands the importance of supporting the whole child, not just their academic progress.
Many of the students you will work with face social, emotional, and mental health challenges that can impact their learning and daily school experience. Your role will be to provide stability, encouragement, and positive support, helping pupils develop confidence, resilience, and the skills they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
The Role
As an SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will support students on a 1:1 basis and in small groups, helping them manage emotions, build positive relationships, and engage successfully with learning. You will work closely with teachers and pastoral staff to create a nurturing environment where pupils feel safe, valued, and understood.
What You'll Be Doing
- Supporting students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs
- Delivering tailored 1:1 and small group interventions
- Encouraging emotional wellbeing and positive self-esteem
- Helping pupils develop coping strategies and resilience
- Supporting engagement in lessons and school activities
- Building strong, trusting relationships with students
- Assisting teachers in creating an inclusive learning environment
- Working collaboratively with SENCOs, pastoral teams, and external professionals
- Promoting safeguarding, wellbeing, and positive outcomes for all pupils
What We're Looking For
- Experience working with children, young people, or vulnerable individuals
- A genuine passion for supporting students with additional needs
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- A patient, nurturing, and empathetic approach
- Ability to remain calm and positive in challenging situations
- Confidence supporting students with emotional and behavioural difficulties
- Creativity and adaptability when supporting individual learning and wellbeing needs
- Team Teach training is highly desirable and would be a strong advantage
- Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to apply for one
Why Join GSL Education?
- Competitive pay rates of £90 - £110 per day
- Long-term opportunities available from September 2026
- Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement
- Opportunity to make a meaningful difference in young people's lives
- Access to inclusive schools committed to student wellbeing and success
Please note that this role requires a strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection. Successful applicants must satisfy all safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS certificate registered on the Update Service or completing a new application.
As an ethical and independent recruitment agency, GSL Education are committed to providing high-quality teaching and support staff across the UK.
To apply for this SEMH Teaching Assistant role in Newcastle upon Tyne, please submit your up-to-date CV and a member of our team will be in touch.