Job Title: SEMH Teaching Assistant
Location: Portslade, Brighton
Start Date: ASAP
Contract Type: Full-time – Term Time Only
Salary: £92.63 – £105 per day (dependent on experience)

Make a Difference Where It Matters Most
A caring and inclusive primary school in Portslade is looking for a compassionate and committed SEMH Teaching Assistant to join their team as soon as possible. This role is ideal for someone with a genuine passion for supporting children with social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs.

You’ll work closely with pupils who require extra support to manage emotions, build resilience, and fully engage with their learning — both on a one‑to‑one basis and in small groups.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Supporting pupils with SEMH needs in class and through targeted interventions
• Assisting in the delivery of personalised learning plans
• Helping pupils develop emotional regulation and positive behaviour strategies
• Building strong, trusting relationships with pupils to create a safe and nurturing environment
• Collaborating with teaching staff, the SENCO, parents, and external agencies
• Contributing to the review and implementation of behaviour and support plans

What We’re Looking For:

• Experience working with children with SEMH and/or SEN (highly desirable)
• Confident in managing challenging behaviour with effective de-escalation techniques
• Calm, empathetic, and resilient when supporting emotional needs
• A positive, proactive attitude and a strong team player
• An enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one)
• Additional training such as Team Teach, trauma‑informed practice, or mental health awareness is a bonus

What’s in It for You?

• Join a school with a strong focus on emotional wellbeing and inclusion
• Regular CPD and training to grow your skillset
• Supportive and experienced staff team
• Opportunities to progress into HLTA roles or teacher training in the future

Interested in Making a Lasting Impact?
Email your CV to: sussex@supplydesk.co.uk
Or call 01273 609993 to find out more about this rewarding opportunity.

Supply Desk is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS, including a children’s barred list check and, where applicable, a vulnerable adults barred list check, is required for all successful candidates.

To be considered for the role and the rates advertised, you must meet the minimum experience, training or qualifications stated and have the legal right to work in the UK. To be considered for a higher rate, in addition to meeting the minimum criteria, you must be able to demonstrate additional experience, training, and if applicable, qualifications. This role complies with AWR (2010) regulations protecting agency workers’ rights. Please note that this job expires after 90 days-you can, however, still apply to be considered for similar roles.

Contact information

Lilia Erskine