Company: Teaching Personnel
Location: Portsmouth
Posted: May 1st, 2026
We are recruiting for a committed, resilient and enthusiastic Teaching Assistant to join a specialist secondary provision supporting pupils aged 11-16 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. This is a full-time role (Monday to Friday), term time only.
About the RoleThis is a varied, hands-on role where you will support teaching and learning across the school. You will work closely with class teachers to help pupils engage with lessons, build confidence and manage their emotions.
On a day-to-day basis, you will:
Support teachers in delivering structured, engaging lessons
Work 1:1 and with small groups to reinforce learning
Assist with classroom activities and adapt resources where needed
Support behaviour management using agreed strategies
Help pupils regulate emotions and stay engaged, particularly during challenging moments
Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils
Support pupils during less structured times of the day
You will not be expected to lead full classes independently, but confidence in supporting small group work is beneficial.
About the PupilsThe school supports pupils with a range of SEMH needs on either a short term placement or long term basis depending on their level of support need. Many students may experience:
Challenges managing emotions such as anger, anxiety or frustration
Low confidence and self-esteem
Difficulties with behaviour and engagement
Barriers to forming positive relationships
A calm, consistent and empathetic approach is essential, along with the ability to set clear boundaries and build trust.
Key Responsibilities
Support teaching and learning in the classroom
Provide 1:1 and small group support
Promote positive behaviour and emotional regulation
Help maintain a safe, structured and supportive environment
Work collaboratively with teaching staff and wider school teams
The Ideal Candidate Will Have
Experience working with young people (school, care, youth work or similar)
An interest or experience in SEMH or additional needs
Strong communication and behaviour support skills
A patient, resilient and adaptable approach
Safeguarding Requirements
All applicants must have a Child Workforce DBS registered on the Update Service, or be willing to apply for one prior to starting.
Why Apply for This Role?
Make a real difference in the lives of young people
Gain valuable experience in a specialist SEMH setting
Work within a supportive and dedicated team
Develop skills in behaviour management and inclusive education
If you're looking for a rewarding role where you can positively impact young people every day, we'd love to hear from you. Apply now with CV to be considered
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ's on the Teaching Personnel website for details.All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance 'Keeping Children Safe in Education' this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.For details of our privacy policy, please visit the Teaching Personnel website.