SEMH Teaching Assistant – Year 4 – January 2027 Start

Location: DL1 Area, Darlington
Job Type: Full Time / Long Term
Start Date: January 2027

About the Role

Working in partnership with a local school, Vision for Education is looking to recruit a dedicated, resilient and compassionate SEMH Teaching Assistant to support a Year 4 child within the DL1 area of Darlington, starting in January 2027.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced and passionate Teaching Assistant who has a genuine interest in supporting children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.

The successful candidate will work on a longer-term basis, providing consistent, tailored support to a Year 4 child who requires additional help with their emotional regulation, behaviour, engagement and access to learning.

You will play an important role in building a positive and trusting relationship with the child, helping them to feel safe, supported and understood within the school environment. You will work closely with the class teacher, SENCO and wider school team to implement appropriate strategies and provide consistent support throughout the school day.

This role would suit someone who is patient, understanding and confident in supporting children who may experience challenges with emotional regulation, behaviour and social interactions.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide dedicated one-to-one support for a Year 4 child with SEMH needs.

• Build a positive, trusting and consistent relationship with the child.

• Support the child's emotional regulation, wellbeing and confidence.

• Implement individual behaviour support strategies and follow agreed plans.

• Help the child manage emotions, frustrations and challenging situations.

• Encourage positive behaviour, engagement and participation in classroom activities.

• Support the child in accessing the curriculum and completing learning tasks.

• Identify potential triggers and use appropriate de-escalation strategies.

• Promote positive social interactions and develop the child's communication skills.

• Encourage independence, resilience and self-esteem.

• Work closely with the class teacher, SENCO and wider school team to ensure consistent support.

• Monitor and communicate the child's progress, achievements and any concerns.

• Maintain a calm, patient and nurturing approach, particularly during challenging situations.

• Follow safeguarding, health and safety and child protection procedures at all times.

What We're Looking For

• Previous experience supporting children with SEMH needs.

• Experience working with primary-aged children, ideally within Key Stage 2.

• Experience supporting children with behavioural, emotional or additional learning needs.

• A calm, patient and resilient approach.

• The ability to build positive and trusting relationships with children.

• Confidence in managing challenging behaviour using positive behaviour strategies.

• An understanding of emotional regulation and strategies to support children's wellbeing.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• The ability to work effectively as part of a team and follow guidance from teaching and pastoral staff.

• A flexible, proactive and supportive attitude.

• A genuine passion for helping children overcome barriers to learning.

• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

• Availability to commit to a longer-term placement from January 2027.

What We Offer

As a valued member of the Vision for Education team, you will benefit from:

• Competitive daily rates, paid weekly through our in-house payroll team using the PAYE system.

• A Guaranteed Pay Scheme, subject to availability and qualifying criteria.

• Pension contributions, subject to a qualifying period.

• Social and networking events.

• FREE training and professional development opportunities.

• Full compliance with the Agency Workers Regulations (AWR).

• Access to a dedicated consultant who will provide ongoing support throughout your placement.

About Us

Vision for Education is a market-leading education supply agency committed to the learning and development of young people. With branches across the country, we are an employer of choice for high-quality primary, secondary and SEND teaching and support staff.

We do not discriminate on the grounds of age, gender, race, colour, religion, disability or sexual orientation, and we welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Vision for Education is committed to safeguarding children and young people. All registered staff will undertake thorough interviewing and referencing checks and must hold, or be prepared to undergo, an Enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service.

How to Apply

If you are an experienced, enthusiastic and dedicated Teaching Assistant with a passion for supporting children with SEMH needs, and are looking for a longer-term opportunity within the DL1 area of Darlington from January 2027, we would love to hear from you.

Apply today via this website, or for more information about this role and other opportunities, contact our Teesside Primary team on 01642 243843 or email teesside@visionforeducation.co.uk.

#INDNL1