Job description
Job Title: SEMH Teaching Assistant
Location: York, North Yorkshire
Contract: Part Time, Full Time, Term Time Only
Start Date: September 2026 or sooner
Salary: £92 - £115 per day
Are you a calm, resilient, and empathetic individual with a passion for supporting young people who experience social, emotional, and mental health challenges?
GSL Education are searching for a dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistant to work within a further education setting in York and the surrounding areas. This is a highly rewarding opportunity to support students with a range of additional needs, helping them to engage in learning, build confidence, and successfully progress within an inclusive and supportive environment.
As an SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will play a key role in supporting learners who may face barriers linked to emotional regulation, behaviour, communication, or additional learning needs. You will work closely with teaching staff and support teams to ensure students receive the guidance and structure they need to succeed.
SEMH Teaching Assistant Responsibilities:
- Provide targeted support to students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs
- Assist learners with additional needs including Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Speech and Language difficulties, Dyspraxia, and Moderate to Severe Learning Difficulties
- Support students on a 1:1 basis and in small groups to improve engagement and learning outcomes
- Help learners regulate emotions and develop positive coping strategies
- Promote a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment
- Encourage positive behaviour, communication, and social interaction
- Work collaboratively with tutors and support staff to implement individual support plans
- Support students in developing independence and confidence in their studies
- Record observations and contribute to learner progress reviews where required
SEMH Teaching Assistant Requirements:
- Previous experience working with young people or adults with SEMH or additional needs is essential or highly desirable
- Strong understanding of SEMH, Autism, ADHD, and associated learning difficulties
- A patient, calm, and consistent approach to supporting challenging behaviour
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to build positive, trusting relationships with learners and staff
- A proactive and flexible approach to supporting individual learner needs
- Understanding of safeguarding within an education or further education setting
- An up-to-date CV covering the last ten years (with any gaps explained)
- An enhanced DBS certificate registered on the update service, or willingness to apply
To apply to work with GSL Education as an SEMH Teaching Assistant in York, or to find out more, please contact Kerry Fowler at GSL Education and submit an up-to-date CV via the application link.
GSL Education are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be subject to safer recruitment checks including an enhanced DBS check registered to the update service (or willingness to apply for one), satisfactory references, and verification of qualifications and right to work in the UK.