Job Description

SEMH Teaching Assistant | Newham | ASAP Start

Are you a Psychology graduate with a genuine passion for supporting young people with social, emotional and mental health needs? A highly inclusive secondary school in Newham is seeking a dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistant to provide 1:1 support to a Year 7 student with ADHD and SEMH needs, starting as soon as possible.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to gain meaningful secondary school experience while making a direct difference to a young person's confidence, engagement and progress. The school has a strong pastoral and inclusion structure, with teaching, SEND and pastoral staff working closely to ensure students with additional needs receive consistent, personalised support throughout the school day.

Why become an SEMH TA at this school?

• £444–£513 weekly via PAYE (inclusive of holiday pay)
• ASAP start with a full-time, long-term placement
• Dedicated SEND and pastoral teams providing guidance and support
• Regular CPD focused on behaviour, safeguarding, SEND and classroom practice
• Opportunity to develop specialist experience supporting ADHD and SEMH
• Potential pathways towards teacher training, Educational Psychology and wider SEND careers
• Supportive environment where you can build a strong professional relationship with one student

About the role:

As an SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will provide consistent 1:1 support to a Year 7 student with ADHD and SEMH needs. You will help the student remain engaged in lessons, manage emotional and behavioural challenges, develop positive routines and access the curriculum successfully.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing 1:1 academic, emotional and behavioural support
• Implementing agreed strategies to encourage positive behaviour and engagement
• Supporting transitions and helping the student navigate the school day
• Working closely with teachers, the SEND team and pastoral staff
• Building trust and acting as a consistent, positive role model

What you'll need to succeed:

• A minimum 2:1 Psychology degree from a leading UK university
• Previous child-centred experience, ideally supporting young people with additional needs
• Excellent communication, patience and emotional intelligence
• Genuine commitment to supporting pupils with SEMH and ADHD

Ribbons & Reeves are London’s leading Education Recruiters. We specialise in helping educators of all levels secure long-term and permanent roles, such as this SEMH Teaching Assistant position in Newham. For other opportunities, search ‘Ribbons & Reeves’. We look forward to supporting you in your application.