Description
SEMH Teaching Assistant / Behaviour Specialist
Location: Poole, Dorset
Start Date: September 2026
Hours: Full Time, Term Time Only
Pay: £95–£105 per day (dependent on experience)
Are you an experienced SEMH professional who is passionate about transforming the lives of vulnerable children?
Axcis Education is working in partnership with a highly respected specialist SEND school in Poole to recruit skilled and dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistants, Behaviour Mentors and Pastoral Support Professionals for September 2026.
This specialist setting supports primary-aged pupils with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) relating to Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Many pupils also have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and have experienced significant barriers to learning. The school is recognised for its nurturing, relationship-based approach, where every child is given the opportunity to rebuild confidence, develop emotional resilience and achieve success.
This role would suit professionals with a strong background in SEMH, behaviour support, youth work, children's residential care, mentoring or alternative provision who are looking to make a meaningful impact within a highly supportive specialist setting.
The Role
• Providing targeted support for pupils with SEMH and ASC needs on a 1:1 and small-group basis
• Building meaningful, trusting relationships with children who require consistency, patience and understanding
• Supporting emotional regulation and implementing therapeutic and trauma-informed strategies
• Acting as a positive role model throughout the school day
• Managing and de-escalating challenging behaviours with confidence and professionalism
• Working alongside teachers, therapists and pastoral teams to deliver personalised support
• Encouraging engagement in learning and helping pupils achieve their individual targets
• Promoting self-esteem, resilience and positive outcomes for every child
The Ideal Candidate
• Has substantial experience supporting children or young people with SEMH needs
• Has worked as a Behaviour Mentor, Youth Worker, Teaching Assistant, Support Worker, Pastoral Practitioner or similar
• Demonstrates a strong understanding of trauma, attachment needs and behaviour as communication
• Remains calm, resilient and solution-focused in challenging situations
• Is confident implementing behaviour support and de-escalation strategies
• Can build positive professional relationships while maintaining clear boundaries
• Is passionate about supporting vulnerable pupils to overcome barriers and succeed
• Holds GCSE Grade C/4 or above in English and Maths (essential)
• Relevant qualifications or degree-level education are desirable
What the School Offers
• A highly supportive and experienced leadership team
• Comprehensive SEMH and SEND-focused training
• A collaborative and welcoming staff culture
• A well-resourced specialist environment
• Ongoing professional development and career progression opportunities
• The chance to make a genuine and lasting difference to children's lives
• Potential for long-term and permanent positions
This is a fantastic opportunity for experienced SEMH professionals seeking a rewarding role where relationship-building, resilience and compassion are at the heart of every day.
If you are ready for a new challenge this September and want to be part of a committed team that changes lives, we would love to hear from you.
Full Time | September 2026 Start | £95–£105 per day
INDDEV
Location: Poole, Dorset
Start Date: September 2026
Hours: Full Time, Term Time Only
Pay: £95–£105 per day (dependent on experience)
Are you an experienced SEMH professional who is passionate about transforming the lives of vulnerable children?
Axcis Education is working in partnership with a highly respected specialist SEND school in Poole to recruit skilled and dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistants, Behaviour Mentors and Pastoral Support Professionals for September 2026.
This specialist setting supports primary-aged pupils with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) relating to Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Many pupils also have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and have experienced significant barriers to learning. The school is recognised for its nurturing, relationship-based approach, where every child is given the opportunity to rebuild confidence, develop emotional resilience and achieve success.
This role would suit professionals with a strong background in SEMH, behaviour support, youth work, children's residential care, mentoring or alternative provision who are looking to make a meaningful impact within a highly supportive specialist setting.
The Role
• Providing targeted support for pupils with SEMH and ASC needs on a 1:1 and small-group basis
• Building meaningful, trusting relationships with children who require consistency, patience and understanding
• Supporting emotional regulation and implementing therapeutic and trauma-informed strategies
• Acting as a positive role model throughout the school day
• Managing and de-escalating challenging behaviours with confidence and professionalism
• Working alongside teachers, therapists and pastoral teams to deliver personalised support
• Encouraging engagement in learning and helping pupils achieve their individual targets
• Promoting self-esteem, resilience and positive outcomes for every child
The Ideal Candidate
• Has substantial experience supporting children or young people with SEMH needs
• Has worked as a Behaviour Mentor, Youth Worker, Teaching Assistant, Support Worker, Pastoral Practitioner or similar
• Demonstrates a strong understanding of trauma, attachment needs and behaviour as communication
• Remains calm, resilient and solution-focused in challenging situations
• Is confident implementing behaviour support and de-escalation strategies
• Can build positive professional relationships while maintaining clear boundaries
• Is passionate about supporting vulnerable pupils to overcome barriers and succeed
• Holds GCSE Grade C/4 or above in English and Maths (essential)
• Relevant qualifications or degree-level education are desirable
What the School Offers
• A highly supportive and experienced leadership team
• Comprehensive SEMH and SEND-focused training
• A collaborative and welcoming staff culture
• A well-resourced specialist environment
• Ongoing professional development and career progression opportunities
• The chance to make a genuine and lasting difference to children's lives
• Potential for long-term and permanent positions
This is a fantastic opportunity for experienced SEMH professionals seeking a rewarding role where relationship-building, resilience and compassion are at the heart of every day.
If you are ready for a new challenge this September and want to be part of a committed team that changes lives, we would love to hear from you.
Full Time | September 2026 Start | £95–£105 per day
INDDEV