SEMH Teaching Assistant - Walsall in West Midlands

Location: Walsall, West Midlands
Employer: Tradewind Recruitment
Contract: Full-time, long-term, with potential temp-to-perm opportunities

Tradewind Recruitment is seeking a caring, dedicated and resilient Specialist Teaching Assistant to join a specialist school in Walsall, supporting primary-aged pupils with a range of additional needs.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of children who require additional support to access education. The school provides a nurturing, structured and inclusive environment, where pupils are supported to develop academically, socially and emotionally.

The successful candidate will be confident supporting children with a range of special educational needs, potentially including Autism (ASC), Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, ADHD, communication difficulties and associated behavioural needs.

You will play an important role in helping pupils overcome barriers to learning, develop independence and build positive relationships, ensuring every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support to primary-aged pupils with additional needs.
• Support children with a range of SEND, including Autism, SEMH, ADHD and communication difficulties.
• Adapt your approach to meet individual learning, emotional and behavioural needs.
• Help pupils develop communication, social skills and independence.
• Support emotional regulation and encourage positive behaviour through consistent strategies.
• Use appropriate de-escalation techniques when supporting pupils who may display challenging behaviour.
• Assist teachers in delivering engaging and accessible learning activities.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils, helping them feel safe, supported and valued.
• Encourage participation in classroom activities and promote confidence in learning.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs and other support staff to ensure pupils receive consistent support.
• Contribute to maintaining a safe, calm and positive learning environment.

The successful candidate will:

• Have previous experience working with children or young people with SEND or additional needs.
• Be confident supporting primary-aged pupils with a range of learning and behavioural needs.
• Have an understanding of Autism, SEMH, ADHD or other special educational needs.
• Be patient, empathetic and adaptable when responding to individual pupil needs.
• Have a good understanding of positive behaviour management and emotional regulation.
• Be confident supporting children who may struggle with communication, social interaction or emotional regulation.
• Remain calm and consistent when faced with challenging situations.
• Be passionate about helping children develop their confidence, independence and learning skills.
• Have a proactive, flexible and resilient approach to supporting pupils.
• Be committed to working as part of a wider school team.
• Have a full UK driving licence and access to their own vehicle.
• Be available to work full-time.

Previous experience within a specialist school, SEN provision, alternative provision, residential childcare or a similar setting would be highly beneficial.

• Competitive daily rates, dependent on experience.
• A full-time, long-term placement within a specialist school in Walsall.
• Potential for a permanent position through a temp-to-perm opportunity.
• Free CPD and professional development opportunities.
• Access to the National College after your first day of work.
• A dedicated consultant providing ongoing support throughout your placement.
• Opportunities to develop your skills and experience within specialist education.
• The chance to make a genuine difference to the lives of children with additional needs.

If you are passionate about supporting children with additional needs and are looking for a rewarding opportunity within a specialist school in Walsall, Tradewind Recruitment would love to hear from you!