SEMH Teaching Assistant - Amazing opportunity!

5th November start
Full Time
Posted 25 days ago
Expiring 3rd April
Southend-on-Sea, Essex
Apply now

Job description

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate SEN School Teaching Assistant to join our team at St Nicholas School in Southend-on-Sea. This full-time role is integral to our commitment to providing a nurturing, inclusive environment where every young person is valued and supported to reach their full potential. Working closely with students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, you will help facilitate personalised learning experiences that align with our school's ethos of compassion, respect, and holistic development. The position is suitable for individuals passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of young people, with start dates aligning with the school’s academic calendar. Key Responsibilities: - Provide individualised support to students with SEMH needs, fostering a safe and supportive environment that encourages emotional and behavioural development in line with the school’s inclusive ethos. - Assist class teachers in delivering tailored educational programmes, ensuring that lessons accommodate the diverse needs of learners and promote their personal growth. - Support students during lesson activities, ensuring engagement and participation while maintaining appropriate behaviour management strategies aligned with the school’s values. - Support students with their social and emotional development by modelling positive communication and behaviour, encouraging resilience and independence. - Work closely with the SENCO and other staff members to develop and implement personalised learning plans and behaviour support strategies. - Support students in accessing the curriculum and activities, promoting their well-being and emotional safety at all times. - Provide 1:1 support for students who require additional assistance, ensuring their individual needs are met sensitively and effectively. - Contribute to a positive, respectful school environment that upholds the school's focus on holistic development, kindness, and respect for all. - Maintain accurate records of student progress and behaviour, contributing to the evaluation of support strategies and sharing relevant information with colleagues. - Uphold the school's ethos of fostering a community where every student feels valued, safe, and supported to develop resilience and confidence. Why Join Zen Educate? At Zen Educate, we understand the importance of work-life balance for teachers and teaching assistants. Whether you are looking for better pay, more flexibility in your schedule, or hands-on support to help you find the right role, we are here to support you every step of the way. Join our platform today and let us help you take the next step in your career.
Online application
Higher pay
Fast-track interviewing

About the school

This dedicated special school serves students aged 11–16 in a welcoming and well-resourced environment. With approximately 100 pupils on roll, it fosters a close-knit, family-like atmosphere where relationships are central to everything they do. The school prioritises the well-being and achievement of each student, ensuring a supportive and nurturing setting. Small class sizes of around 12 pupils enable strong, positive relationships between staff and students, providing the personalised support needed for individuals to reach their full potential. All students have an Education, Health and Care Plan, and the school is part of a Multi-Academy Trust specialising in special education, along with three other local schools. Visits for prospective students and their families are organised on a monthly basis, typically in group sessions. To arrange a visit or for more information, interested parties are encouraged to contact the school office. This school is committed to creating an inclusive environment where every student can thrive academically and socially. Staff are dedicated to providing a safe, caring, and enriching space that promotes confidence and independence.

Start finding work today

I'm a
with experience,
looking to work near .

I'd like to receive product updates, offers and teaching resources from Zen Educate by:

Or sign up as a school

Real stories

As seen in
BBCTESSchoolsweek

Latest 4 jobs in Essex

Previous job
Next job
  • SEN Teaching Assistant - SLD / PMLD
    SEN School school in Southend-on-SeaFull Time
    1 Dec 2025 - 17 Jul 2026
    We are pleased to offer a fantastic opportunity for a dedicated and compassionate Sen-school Teaching Assistant to join our vibrant team in Southend-on-Sea. This role is integral to supporting young people with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), aligning with our school’s core values of fostering an inclusive, nurturing, and empowering environment. Working full-time, you will contribute to creating a supportive learning setting that promotes individual growth, independence, and well-being, reflecting our commitment to personalised education and holistic development. The position is ideal for individuals passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of young people with complex needs. Key Responsibilities: - Support the delivery of personalised learning programmes tailored to the individual needs of students with SLD and PMLD, ensuring they receive appropriate educational opportunities in line with the school’s ethos. - Assist class teachers in planning and implementing activities that promote communication, social skills, and independence. - Provide 1:1 support to students with complex needs, ensuring their safety, well-being, and engagement throughout the school day. - Implement specialised strategies and interventions to support sensory, communication, and behavioural needs, as outlined in students' individualised Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans. - Support students with personal care requirements in a respectful and dignified manner, promoting their independence and confidence. - Maintain a safe, stimulating, and inclusive learning environment by adhering to health and safety policies and safeguarding procedures. - Collaborate effectively with teaching staff, therapists, and other professionals to ensure cohesive support for each student’s development. - Assist in the supervision of students during breaks, trips, and extracurricular activities, ensuring their safety and inclusion. - Contribute to the ongoing assessment and recording of student progress, providing feedback to the teaching team to inform planning and intervention strategies. - Uphold the school’s commitment to fostering a positive, respectful, and inclusive community, supporting students to develop resilience, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging. Why Join Zen Educate? At Zen Educate, we understand the importance of work-life balance for teachers and teaching assistants. Whether you are looking for better pay, more flexibility in your schedule, or hands-on support to help you find the right role, we are here to support you every step of the way. Join our platform today and let us help you take the next step in your career.
    Learn more
    Posted 3 days ago
  • Lovely Primary School in Essex - Part-Time Teaching Role
    Primary school in BasildonPart Time
    21 Nov 2025 - 17 Jul 2026
    Summary: We are seeking a dedicated Part-Time Primary Teacher to join our welcoming school community in Basildon, Essex, supporting our specialised Autism Provision. This role aligns with our school's core values of inclusivity, respect, and individualised learning, ensuring every pupil receives the support they need to thrive. The successful candidate will work closely with a small team to deliver high-quality education, with lesson plans provided, allowing you to focus on personalised support. This position is ideal for someone committed to fostering a nurturing environment where all children can realise their full potential. This role is 1 day/week, being every Friday. Key Responsibilities: - Deliver pre-planned lessons to four pupils within the Autism Provision, ensuring that learning objectives are met in accordance with the school’s inclusive ethos. - Provide personalised support to individual pupils, promoting their social, emotional, and academic development in a safe and caring environment. - Maintain a positive and respectful classroom atmosphere that reflects the school’s values of kindness, respect, and community. - Collaborate with the school’s multidisciplinary team, including teaching assistants and special educational needs coordinators, to ensure cohesive support for pupils. - Implement behaviour management strategies consistent with the school’s approach to creating a calm and structured learning environment. - Monitor and record pupils’ progress, providing feedback to the wider team to support ongoing development. - Uphold all health and safety policies, safeguarding procedures, and confidentiality protocols in line with the school’s commitment to safeguarding and wellbeing. - Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement by participating in school meetings and training sessions as required. Why Join Zen Educate? At Zen Educate, we understand the importance of work-life balance for teachers and teaching assistants. Whether you are looking for better pay, more flexibility in your schedule, or hands-on support to help you find the right role, we are here to support you every step of the way. Join our platform today and let us help you take the next step in your career.
    Learn more
    Posted 10 days ago
  • SEMH Teaching Assistant - Amazing opportunity!
    SEN School school in Southend-on-SeaFull Time
    5 Nov 2025 - 3 Apr 2026
    We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate SEN School Teaching Assistant to join our team at St Nicholas School in Southend-on-Sea. This full-time role is integral to our commitment to providing a nurturing, inclusive environment where every young person is valued and supported to reach their full potential. Working closely with students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, you will help facilitate personalised learning experiences that align with our school's ethos of compassion, respect, and holistic development. The position is suitable for individuals passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of young people, with start dates aligning with the school’s academic calendar. Key Responsibilities: - Provide individualised support to students with SEMH needs, fostering a safe and supportive environment that encourages emotional and behavioural development in line with the school’s inclusive ethos. - Assist class teachers in delivering tailored educational programmes, ensuring that lessons accommodate the diverse needs of learners and promote their personal growth. - Support students during lesson activities, ensuring engagement and participation while maintaining appropriate behaviour management strategies aligned with the school’s values. - Support students with their social and emotional development by modelling positive communication and behaviour, encouraging resilience and independence. - Work closely with the SENCO and other staff members to develop and implement personalised learning plans and behaviour support strategies. - Support students in accessing the curriculum and activities, promoting their well-being and emotional safety at all times. - Provide 1:1 support for students who require additional assistance, ensuring their individual needs are met sensitively and effectively. - Contribute to a positive, respectful school environment that upholds the school's focus on holistic development, kindness, and respect for all. - Maintain accurate records of student progress and behaviour, contributing to the evaluation of support strategies and sharing relevant information with colleagues. - Uphold the school's ethos of fostering a community where every student feels valued, safe, and supported to develop resilience and confidence. Why Join Zen Educate? At Zen Educate, we understand the importance of work-life balance for teachers and teaching assistants. Whether you are looking for better pay, more flexibility in your schedule, or hands-on support to help you find the right role, we are here to support you every step of the way. Join our platform today and let us help you take the next step in your career.
    Learn more
    Posted 25 days ago
  • SEN Teaching Assistant | Amazing opportunity!
    SEN School school in Southend-on-SeaFull Time
    3 Nov 2025 - 17 Jul 2026
    We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate SEN-school Teaching Assistant to join our inclusive community in Southend-on-Sea. This full-time role is vital in supporting young people with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Moderate Learning Difficulties (MLD), aligning with our school’s ethos of creating a nurturing environment where every individual’s potential is realised. The successful candidate will work closely with teaching staff and care teams to provide tailored support that promotes independence, confidence, and academic progress for our students. This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference within a school committed to inclusivity, respect, and holistic development. The role is available immediately and will continue on a full-time basis. Key Responsibilities: - Support the delivery of personalised learning programmes for students with SLD and MLD, ensuring that their individual needs and learning goals are met in accordance with the school’s inclusive ethos. - Implement tailored strategies and interventions under the guidance of teachers to facilitate student engagement and learning within the classroom. - Assist with the development of independence and life skills, encouraging students to participate actively in daily routines and activities. - Provide 1:1 support to students requiring additional assistance, fostering a safe and supportive environment that promotes emotional well-being. - Assist in the supervision and management of students during lessons, breaks, and other activities, ensuring their safety and well-being at all times. - Support the implementation of behaviour management plans, encouraging positive behaviour and social interaction. - Contribute to creating a calm, respectful, and stimulating classroom environment that reflects the school’s values of kindness, respect, and inclusion. - Collaborate with teachers, therapists, and other professionals to support holistic development and ensure consistency in approaches. - Assist with personal care and medical needs where appropriate, always respecting the dignity and privacy of students. - Participate in training and professional development opportunities to continually enhance skills and understanding of SEN best practices. Why Join Zen Educate? At Zen Educate, we understand the importance of work-life balance for teachers and teaching assistants. Whether you are looking for better pay, more flexibility in your schedule, or hands-on support to help you find the right role, we are here to support you every step of the way. Join our platform today and let us help you take the next step in your career.
    Learn more
    Posted about 1 month ago

FAQ

Signing up

I'm having trouble registering

If the online sign up isn't working as it should for you then you can email your CV and a short description of what you're looking for to our team at teachwithus@zeneducate.com and we'll be in touch.

How do I interview? Do I have to come to your office?

To make sure you're getting bookings perfect for you, we will invite you to a 30-minute online interview with our team to learn about your experience, preferences and why you're passionate about working in education. You can do this through any smartphone or computer. If you'd prefer to interview in person at our office, just let us know. Recent regulation changes require us to see your documents for your right to work in the UK in person. This takes no more than 5 minutes, dropping by our offices in London or Manchester.

I'm still in a full-time job/ not looking to work straight away and just looking

If you're not ready to find another role, or, you're definitely still welcome to sign up. Registering with us and letting us know what you're looking for will help us to get in touch with you about roles you may be interested in!

I only have overseas experience. Is that OK?

Generally schools prefer teachers and TAs who are familiar with the UK Curriculum, but this can vary. We'd be happy to speak to you about your experience, and find out if we'd be able to help you find a role.

Vetting

What documents will I need to provide?

We'll need evidence of your identity, right to work and teaching qualifaction. In addition, we'll need an enhanced DBS certificate and references from two recent previous employers.

Can you apply for a DBS for me?

Yes. If you need a DBS or your DBS needs updating we can apply for one fore you. The cost of a DBS is £47.20 which we will reimburse once you have worked 10 days through Zen.

I don't have my documents right now. Can I still sign up?

Yes! You can sign up now and let us know what work you're looking for. You can return at any time to finish your profile and start getting bookings.

I don't have recent references, can I still sign up?

You can definitely still sign up! Once you've uploaded your CV, we'll be able to look at your experience, and help you figure out who would be best placed to act as your referees.

Roles

What roles do you cover?

We help Teachers, Teaching Assistants, and Cover Supervisors find work. We work with all types of schools and help with short-term, long-term and permanent roles. Many of our long-term roles convert to permanent roles. We make it far easier than a traditional agency for teachers to convert temporary positions into permanent ones.

What areas do you cover?

We work with over 400 schools in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol and Leeds.

How much work is there?

Generally speaking, we have consistently high demand for daily supply teachers in Greater London, Manchester Birmingham, Bristol and Leeds. Teaching assistant work is generally higher for long-term roles rather than daily supply cover.

Do you have primary, secondary or nursery jobs?

Yes. We can help with daily supply and long-term jobs in nurseries, primary schools and secondary schools. We don't typically have jobs in further education or college.

Do you have work for cover supervisors, invigilators, or school administrators?

While the majority of our work is for teachers and teaching assistants, we do also have work for cover supervisors and invigilators. Explain what you are looking for when you sign up and our team will help you.

What subjects do you cover?

We cover all subjects taught in primary and secondary schools - if you're not sure if we can help you with what you're looking for, please register and arrange to speak to a member of our Teacher Success team.

Do you do school admin jobs?

If you're looking for teaching or teaching assistant roles, and would also be interested in admin roles, it's worth letting us know. If you're only looking for admin roles, we might not be the place for you, as this isn't what we specialise in.

General

How is Zen different from a recruitment agency?

Zen Educate is a technology platform to connect teachers with schools directly. Agencies are an expensive middleman between schools and teachers. They have to charge high commissions because their booking procedures are largely manual and run on outdated systems. Because we run more of the process online or on your phone, we create an experience that delights schools and teachers at a fraction of the cost.

What roles do you cover?

Start a conversation on chat or email support@zeneducate.com and our friendly team will get back to you shortly.