Are you an experienced Teaching Assistant seeking a rewarding opportunity to support young people with SEMH needs and challenging behaviours? Join a specialist alternative provision in Cradley Heath, where you’ll play a crucial role in helping pupils aged 11–16 re-engage with education. If you’re passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of students who have faced barriers in mainstream settings, this full-time, contract position offers excellent professional development and meaningful daily work. What's in it for you? £95 per day Full-time Teaching Assistant role Monday to Friday working pattern Early finish at 1:15pm every Friday Start as soon as your compliance checks are completed Work in a specialist alternative provision setting Support pupils in smaller groups and 1:1 sessions Build expertise in SEMH and alternative education Collaborate with experienced teaching and pastoral professionals Experience the satisfaction of helping young people overcome barriers to learning  The Role As a Teaching Assistant, you will collaborate with teaching and pastoral teams to deliver academic and emotional support. The young people you support may demonstrate SEMH needs, emotional dysregulation, and behaviours that challenge. You’ll help establish positive professional relationships, maintain clear boundaries, and use effective behaviour management techniques. Responsibilities Provide 1:1 and small-group support Assist pupils with SEMH needs and challenging behaviour Help young people access and engage with lessons Support emotional regulation and resilience Identify triggers and respond appropriately Apply positive behaviour management and de-escalation strategies Maintain consistent, professional boundaries Encourage confidence, independence, and engagement with education Support teachers with learning activities and interventions Help maintain a structured and supportive learning environment  Skills and Experience Specialist experience is essential for this position. You must have: At least 6 months’ relevant experience working with children or young people Strong background supporting pupils with SEMH needs and challenging behaviour Experience in a PRU, alternative provision, SEMH school, SEND, or similar Confidence working with the 11–16 age group Effective behaviour management and de-escalation strategies Patient, resilient, and consistent approach Strong relationship-building and teamwork skills A genuine desire to help young people succeed Enhanced Child DBS registered on the Update Service or willingness for one to be processed Satisfactory references covering your recent 24 months Ability to work through compliance checks promptly Availability to start immediately once compliant  A Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification is advantageous but not essential where substantial relevant experience is evidenced. Location and Package Location: Cradley Heath Position: Teaching Assistant – SEMH / Alternative Provision Pay: £95 per day Age Group: 11–16 Working Pattern: Full-time, Monday to Friday Friday Finish: 1:15pm Start: ASAP once compliant  If you have the specialist skills and experience required, and you are available to start promptly, this is your opportunity to make a genuine difference in an alternative provision setting. Your resilience, relationship-building skills, and dedication will help young people overcome barriers and build brighter futures. Apply now to take the next step in your SEMH and alternative education career