Job Description

Job Opportunity: SEMH Teaching Assistant

Location: Manchester
Employer: MAT Recruitment Agency on behalf of one of our partner schools
Hours: Full-Time

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people? Do you have experience working with challenging behaviours and a commitment to supporting the educational and emotional development of students with SEMH needs? If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you!

MAT Recruitment is working in partnership with an SEMH specialist school in Manchester to recruit a dedicated and enthusiastic SEMH Teaching Assistant. This is a full-time role offering the chance to work in a supportive and dynamic environment, helping students overcome barriers to learning and thrive in their education.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide 1:1 and small group support for students with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
• Assist in implementing Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and behaviour support strategies.
• Build strong, trusting relationships with students, using patience and empathy to foster a positive learning environment.
• Support the class teacher in planning and delivering engaging lessons tailored to individual needs.
• Manage and de-escalate challenging behaviours using positive reinforcement and appropriate strategies.

What We’re Looking For:

• Essential:

  • Previous experience working with children or young people with SEMH needs or challenging behaviours.
  • A calm, resilient, and empathetic approach to managing behaviour and fostering positive outcomes.

• Desirable:

  • Team Teach trained (training can be provided for the right candidate).
  • Experience in a specialist school or alternative provision setting.
  • Understanding of safeguarding policies and procedures.

What’s On Offer:

• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Access to ongoing professional development and Team Teach training if needed.
• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people.

How to Apply:

If you are passionate about supporting students with SEMH needs and have the experience required for this role, we would love to hear from you.

Contact David at MAT Recruitment today on 07988989791 or via email at David.palmer@matrecruitment.com


MAT Recruitment is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in line with KCSIE 2024. In order to meet this responsibility, we follow a rigorous selection process. 

MAT Recruitment is an equal opportunities employer; therefore, we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons.

Join us in making a difference—one student at a time!