SEMH Teaching Assistant - Immediate Start - Esher

Esher, Surrey | £100 - £110 PAYE per day | Full-time | Immediate Start | Long-term with potential to become permanent

Every young person deserves an adult who refuses to give up on them.

Some students arrive at school carrying anxiety, trauma and experiences that have left them disconnected from education. They need patient, consistent adults who can see beyond behaviour, build trust and help them believe in themselves again.

If you're someone who stays calm when others are struggling, values relationships and wants to make a genuine difference, this SEMH Teaching Assistant role in Esher could be exactly where you're needed.

You'll be supporting young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, alongside Autism (ASC) and ADHD, in a specialist secondary setting where every small success is celebrated and every positive relationship matters.

About the School

This specialist provision supports students whose needs have made mainstream education difficult. Many pupils experience anxiety, emotional dysregulation and low self-esteem, requiring adults who can provide stability, understanding and encouragement.

The school follows a trauma-informed approach, helping students understand and manage their emotions while developing confidence, resilience and independence.

Accessible from Esher, Walton-on-Thames, Weybridge, Kingston, Cobham and Epsom.

Your Role

As an SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will:

• Support students in lessons, small groups and around the school
• Build positive, trusting relationships with young people
• Recognise early signs of anxiety or emotional distress
• Use calm and effective de-escalation techniques
• Encourage students to re-engage with learning after challenges
• Promote emotional regulation and positive behaviour
• Work closely with teachers and pastoral staff to support student progress

What We're Looking For

Essential:

• Experience supporting young people with SEMH needs, trauma or behaviour that challenges
• Confidence remaining calm in challenging situations
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• A genuine interest in supporting young people's wellbeing
• Right to work in the UK

Desirable:

• Experience in education, care, youth work or mental health settings
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practice
• Experience supporting young people with ASC and ADHD
• Enhanced DBS or willingness to obtain one

Applications are welcomed from Teaching Assistants, Behaviour Mentors, Youth Workers, Support Workers, Care Workers, Sports Coaches and graduates looking to develop a career in SEND.

Why Apply?

This role offers valuable experience for those considering careers in:

• Teaching
• Educational Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Counselling
• Social Work
• Youth Justice
• Mental Health Services

You'll receive ongoing support, specialist training and access to CPD opportunities while making a meaningful impact every day.

Interested?

If you're ready to help young people overcome barriers, build confidence and achieve success, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today to find out more about this rewarding SEMH Teaching Assistant opportunity in Esher.

Safeguarding Statement: This role is subject to satisfactory references, an Enhanced DBS check and all safer recruitment checks in line with safeguarding requirements.