Job description
Job Title: SEMH Teaching Assistant
Location: Sunderland
Salary: £95 - £115 per day (depending on experience)
Start Date: September 2026
Contract Type: Part-Time | Long-Term Opportunity
Empowering students with SEMH needs through understanding, patience, and creativity.
Are you a compassionate and resilient individual with a passion for supporting young people with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs?
GSL Education are seeking a dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistant to work within supportive schools across Sunderland from September 2026. This rewarding role is ideal for someone who understands the importance of building positive relationships and providing consistent support to pupils who may face emotional, behavioural, or social challenges.
We are looking for individuals who can offer patience, encouragement, and understanding while helping students develop confidence, resilience, and positive attitudes towards learning. Your support could have a lasting impact on a young person's educational journey and personal development.
About the Role
As an SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with pupils who require additional emotional and behavioural support. You will provide 1:1 and small group interventions, helping students manage challenges, engage in learning, and achieve their full potential both academically and personally.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide tailored 1:1 and small group support for pupils with SEMH needs
- Build positive, trusting, and professional relationships with students
- Support emotional regulation, wellbeing, and positive behaviour strategies
- Encourage engagement in lessons and wider school activities
- Help students develop confidence, resilience, and social skills
- Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, pastoral teams, and external professionals
- Promote a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment
- Monitor and record pupil progress where required
- Uphold safeguarding and school policies at all times
What We're Looking For
- Experience working with children, young people, or vulnerable individuals is desirable
- Understanding of SEMH needs and behaviour support strategies
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Patient, empathetic, and resilient approach
- Ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations
- Passion for supporting young people to achieve positive outcomes
- Enhanced DBS Certificate on the Update Service – Essential
- Ability to commit to the role from September 2026
Why Join GSL Education?
- Competitive daily pay rates of £95 - £115 per day
- Rewarding opportunity to make a genuine difference in students' lives
- Supportive and inclusive school environments
- Ongoing guidance from experienced education consultants
- Valuable experience working within specialist and mainstream educational settings
- Opportunities for continued professional development
Please be advised that this role requires a strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection. Successful applicants must satisfy all safer recruitment checks, including holding an enhanced DBS certificate registered on the Update Service.
As an ethical and independent recruitment agency, GSL Education are committed to providing high-quality teaching and support staff across the UK.
For more information or to register your interest in this SEMH Teaching Assistant role in Sunderland, please click 'Apply Now' and submit your up-to-date CV. One of our dedicated consultants will be in touch.