Specialist Group Guide Teaching Assistant (SEMH)

Salary: £22,134 - £24,011.00 per annum Hours: 33 hours per week, Monday–Friday Contract: Permanent - Term time only + 5 inset days Location: Barnsley, South Yorkshire

We’re looking for a dedicated and empathetic Specialist Group Guide Teaching Assistant to join our client’s supportive school community, working with pupils who have Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.

You’ll play a key role in helping a small group of students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally — providing stability, structure, and encouragement throughout the school day.

Main Responsibilities

* Provide dedicated, day-to-day support to a small group of students with complex SEMH needs.

* Help pupils regulate their emotions and behaviour, acting as a trusted and consistent adult presence.

* Model calm, positive, and resilient behaviour, maintaining clear and respectful boundaries.

* Support students’ engagement in learning, encouraging participation in lessons and school life.

* Facilitate smooth transitions between lessons and activities, helping students manage change and maintain focus.

* Promote inclusion by encouraging participation in all classroom and extracurricular activities.

* Support the work of subject and pastoral leads to ensure appropriate academic and emotional support is in place.

* Implement effective behaviour management strategies, including the use of Team Teach and restorative practices.

* Maintain accurate and confidential pupil records — including safeguarding, attendance, and behaviour logs.

* Communicate sensitively with parents, carers, and staff to create a consistent support network around each pupil.

* Attend and contribute to meetings, planning sessions, and training as part of your ongoing professional development.

* Support pupils during lunch, break times, school trips, and community-based activities.

* Promote a safe, structured, and stimulating learning environment in line with school policies.

Essential Skills & Experience

* Ability and willingness to drive for work if required.

* Experience working with children or young people with complex SEMH or behavioural needs.

* Strong understanding of positive behaviour support and de-escalation techniques.

* Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with a calm and empathetic approach.

* Good general education, including GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths and English.

* NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) qualification, or willingness to work towards it.

* Awareness of safeguarding and child protection procedures.

Why join our client?

* A supportive, collaborative team that values staff wellbeing and development.

* Ongoing training and professional development, including Team Teach certification.

* The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children who need it most.

* Recognition as a Gold Investors in People organisation, demonstrating our commitment to engaging and supporting our staff.

Safeguarding: All roles are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

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