New Directions are seeking a dedicated and resilient Teaching Assistant to join a supportive SEMH school in Manchester. This is an exciting opportunity for an individual who is passionate about supporting children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and helping them overcome barriers to learning. The role is due to start in September 2026 and continue for the full academic year.
We are looking for a Level 3 Teaching Assistant; however, candidates without a Level 3 qualification will be considered if they can demonstrate strong experience working with children who display challenging behaviour and have experienced trauma-informed backgrounds.
The Role
- Support pupils with SEMH needs both within the classroom and through targeted interventions
- Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils to promote engagement and emotional wellbeing
- Assist teaching staff in delivering engaging and accessible learning activities
- Use behaviour management strategies to support pupils with challenging behaviour
- Create a positive, inclusive and structured learning environment
- Work collaboratively with teachers, pastoral teams and external professionals to support pupil progress
The Candidate
- Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification is desirable
- Candidates without a Level 3 qualification must have substantial experience supporting children with challenging behaviour and trauma-informed backgrounds
- Previous experience working within an SEMH, SEND, alternative provision or similar educational setting
- A calm, patient and resilient approach to supporting young people
- Strong behaviour management skills and the ability to de-escalate challenging situations effectively
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
- A dedicated and expert Account Manager
- Regular and varied supply work
- Competitive rates of pay
- Potential long-term teaching roles
- Full compliance with the Agency Workers Regulation (AWR)
- A network of branches across the UK
- Preferred supplier to more than 20 boroughs across the UK
- Recommend-a-friend scheme
- Respected reputation across the education and recruitment industry
We are fully committed to the protection of children and vulnerable adults. All applicants must undertake a full enhanced DBS (formerly CRB) check
New Directions Education Ltd is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.
