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, resilient, and supportive individual looking to make a genuine difference in the lives of young people?
GSL Education are seeking a dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistant to join schools across Sunderland from September 2026. This rewarding role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about supporting pupils with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and helping them overcome barriers to learning.
We are looking for someone who understands that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed. Through patience, encouragement, and positive relationship-building, you will help students develop confidence, resilience, and the skills they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
About the Role
As an SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will provide tailored support to pupils who require additional emotional, behavioural, and social support. Working closely with teachers, SENCOs, and pastoral teams, you will help create a safe and nurturing environment where students feel valued, understood, and motivated to learn.
This part-time role offers an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience while making a lasting impact on young people's educational journeys.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide 1:1 and small group support for pupils with SEMH needs
- Build strong, positive, and trusting relationships with students
- Support emotional regulation and positive behaviour strategies
- Encourage engagement in learning and school activities
- Help pupils develop confidence, resilience, and social skills
- Work collaboratively with teachers, SEN staff, and pastoral teams
- Support the implementation of individual support plans
- Promote a safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment
- 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
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Patient, empathetic, and resilient approach
- Ability to remain calm in challenging situations
- Passion for supporting young people to achieve positive outcomes
- Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to apply for one
- Reliable, professional, and committed attitude
Why Join GSL Education?
- Competitive daily pay rates of £95 - £115 per day
- Part-time opportunity starting in September 2026
- Rewarding role supporting students with additional needs
- Supportive school environments across Sunderland
- Dedicated support from experienced education consultants
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression
Please be advised 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.
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.