Randstad Education • Littlehampton, West Sussex BN17 1AA
About this role
Special Educational Needs (SEMH) Teaching Assistant - Alternative Provision
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Salary
£92.56 - £95.00 per day (Depending on experience)
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Contract
Long-Term Contract, Term-Time Only
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Location
Worthing, West Sussex
Are you a resilient, empathetic, and trauma-informed individual who refuses to give up on young people? Do you believe that "challenging behaviour" is simply an unmet need?
We are seeking an exceptional Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) Teaching Assistant for a long-term contract within a dedicated alternative provision team in Worthing. This is not your average classroom role. You will be working with secondary-aged students (11-16) who have faced significant barriers to mainstream education, providing them with the stability, guidance, and support they need to re-engage with learning and rebuild their confidence.
The Role
Re-engaging & Empowering Vulnerable Learners
Reporting directly to the Head of Provision and the SENCo, you will be a vital anchor for students navigating complex emotional and behavioural landscapes.
Your core responsibilities will include
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De-escalation & Behaviour Support
Utilise proactive, positive behaviour strategies and therapeutic approaches to manage high-level challenging behaviours, defuse conflicts, and maintain a safe, calm environment.
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Targeted Interventions
Deliver tailored 1
1 and small-group interventions focusing on emotional regulation, social skills, and self-esteem, aligned with students' Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
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Nurturing Academic Support
Help students access a modified curriculum, breaking down tasks to reduce frustration and celebrating small victories to foster a sense of achievement.
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Building Restorative Relationships
Act as a trusted adult and mentor, helping students understand their emotions, repair relationships, and develop crucial life and coping skills.
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Collaborative Safeguarding & Reporting
Work alongside a multi-disciplinary team to track behavioural trends, update risk assessments, and maintain rigorous safeguarding records.
What We Are Looking For
The young people in our provision require consistency, authenticity, and unwavering support.
The ideal candidate will possess
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Proven Experience
Experience working with secondary-aged youth displaying SEMH needs, severe challenging behaviour, or complex trauma (within an AP, PRU, youth work, or residential care setting).
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Thick
Skin & a Big Heart
Exceptional resilience, emotional intelligence, and the ability to remain entirely calm, objective, and grounded during intense, high-pressure situations.
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A Therapeutic Mindset
An understanding of trauma-informed practice, attachment theories, or restorative justice. Certifications like Team Teach, Price, or MAPA are highly desirable (though training will be provided).
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Strong Boundaries & Communication
The ability to establish firm, respectful boundaries while maintaining an approachable, non-judgemental demeanour.
What We Offer
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Competitive Pay
£92.56 - £95.00 per day, reflecting the specialist and demanding nature of this role.
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Stability
A long-term, consistent contract offering predictable income and regular hours throughout the school year.
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Expert Training
Access to comprehensive, ongoing professional development, including advanced de-escalation training and trauma-informed practice.
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Unrivalled Support
A deeply supportive, tight-knit team environment where staff well-being and debriefing sessions are prioritised.
How to Apply
Ready to make a real difference where it matters most? If you have the resilience and passion to support our most vulnerable learners in Worthing, please reach out to Hannah Joyner to apply or find out more:
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hannah.joyner@randstad.co.uk
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Call
01293527416