Job Title: Mental Health Teaching Assistant Location: Pontefract, West Yorkshire Contract Type: Long-term temporary, following a successful trial Leader Education is seeking dedicated and resilient Mental Health Teaching Assistants to support children aged 11-16 with profound/severe Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs in a Pontefract specialist school setting.
This role demands an understanding and patient approach to help students thrive, even in the face of extremely challenging behaviours.
This is a rewarding opportunity for individuals passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people.
Prior experience in a school or SEMH environment is beneficial, but we welcome applicants with transferable skills, a genuine interest in mental health support, and the resilience needed to work in this challenging but rewarding field.
Responsibilities: Provide tailored 1:1 and small group support to students with profound/severe SEMH needs.
Assist in managing challenging behaviours using positive and restorative approaches.
Support the implementation of individual learning plans, EHCPs, or behaviour management plans.
Foster a safe, inclusive learning environment that promotes students' emotional and social development.
Collaborate with teaching staff and other professionals to support student progress and well-being.
Monitor and record student progress, providing feedback to teachers and pastoral teams as needed.
The Successful Candidate Will Have: A compassionate and resilient attitude, with a strong commitment to supporting students with severe SEMH needs.
The ability to build trusting relationships with young people who may exhibit extreme behaviours.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with students, staff, and parents.
Experience working with children or young people, particularly in roles involving challenging behaviour or mental health support.
Flexibility and adaptability to meet the varied needs of students in a dynamic environment.
A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable young people.
Leader Education Offers: Competitive pay rates.
£100 refer-a-friend bonus (terms apply).
Free CPD training, including Team Teach and other behaviour management strategies.
A dedicated consultant offering ongoing support and guidance.
Opportunities for permanent contracts following a successful trial period.
If you are passionate about supporting students with severe SEMH needs and can demonstrate the resilience and understanding required for this role, we encourage you to apply.
Please send your CV or contact us at 0333 577 5034 to learn more.
All applicants will undergo a thorough vetting process, including an enhanced DBS check and comprehensive reference checks, in line with our safeguarding commitments to young people.
INDSUP