Job description
SEMH Teaching Assistant
Location: Near Scarborough, North Yorkshire
Salary: £92 - £110 per day
Contract: Full-Time, Term Time Only
Start Date: September 2026
Support Young People. Build Confidence. Change Lives.
GSL Education are recruiting a compassionate and resilient SEMH Teaching Assistant to join a specialist educational setting near Scarborough from September 2026.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about supporting children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, helping pupils overcome barriers to learning and develop the confidence, resilience and skills they need to succeed.
The role would suit candidates with experience in education, youth work, mental health support, care, sports coaching or anyone with a genuine passion for making a positive difference in the lives of young people.
About the School
Our client is a specialist school providing a nurturing and supportive environment for children and young people with a range of additional needs, including SEMH needs. The school is committed to creating a safe, structured and inclusive setting where pupils are encouraged to develop academically, socially and emotionally.
The school places strong emphasis on building trusting relationships, understanding individual needs and supporting pupils through personalised approaches. Staff work closely together to provide consistency, encouragement and positive role modelling, helping pupils develop independence, confidence and the skills needed for life beyond school.
The Role
As an SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will:
- Provide 1:1 and small group support to pupils with SEMH and additional needs.
- Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils and become a consistent source of support.
- Support pupils to regulate emotions, manage behaviour and develop coping strategies.
- Encourage engagement with learning through a patient and nurturing approach.
- Work alongside teachers and support staff to implement personalised strategies.
- Support pupils during lessons, social times and transitions throughout the school day.
- Promote independence, confidence and positive social interactions.
- Help create a calm, safe and supportive learning environment.
The Ideal Candidate
We are looking for someone who:
- Has experience supporting children, young people or vulnerable adults (desirable but not essential).
- Has an understanding of SEMH, behaviour, trauma or emotional regulation.
- Is patient, empathetic and resilient.
- Can build strong relationships with pupils who may have experienced barriers to education.
- Has excellent communication skills and a positive, proactive approach.
- Can remain calm and consistent when supporting challenging situations.
- Is committed to helping young people achieve their potential.
Previous experience in roles such as Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant, Youth Worker, Support Worker, Care Assistant, Sports Coach, Mental Health Support Worker or Behaviour Mentor would be highly valued.
Why Join GSL Education?
- Competitive daily pay of £92 - £110 per day, depending on experience.
- Full-time role starting September 2026.
- Dedicated consultant providing ongoing support throughout your placement.
- Access to free CPD training, including Trauma-Informed Practice.
- Opportunities for long-term and permanent positions.
- Supportive and approachable recruitment team.
- GSL Education is a Gold Standard Compliance Assured (GCA) agency, demonstrating our commitment to safeguarding, quality and best practice.
Safeguarding Statement
GSL Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be subject to our rigorous safer recruitment procedures, including an enhanced DBS check on the Update Service (or willingness to apply for one), satisfactory references, and verification of the right to work in the UK.
If you are passionate about supporting young people and want to make a meaningful difference every day, apply today via the application link to be an SEMH Teaching Assistant near Scarborough.