SEMH Learning Support Assistant
📍 Location: Lewisham Borough
🕒 Job Type: Full-time (Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 4:00pm)
💷 Salary: £89 – £105 per day (PAYE)
🚀 Start: Immediate
Ortus Recruitment are seeking a compassionate, resilient, and dedicated SEMH Learning Support Assistant to join one of our partnered primary or specialist SEN schools. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone passionate about supporting children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and helping them thrive both academically and emotionally.
The ideal candidate will have experience working with vulnerable children, challenging behaviour, or additional needs, and will be confident providing tailored support in a calm, nurturing manner.
Role Overview
As an SEMH Learning Support Assistant, you will work closely with the class teacher, behaviour team, SENCO, and external professionals to create a safe and supportive environment where every child can succeed.
Key Responsibilities:
🧑🏫 Classroom Support
• Provide targeted 1:1 and small group support for pupils with SEMH and behavioural needs
• Assist the class teacher in delivering differentiated learning activities
• Help maintain a calm, structured and predictable classroom environment
🧠 SEMH Support
• Use de-escalation strategies and emotional regulation techniques
• Support pupils in managing their emotions, building resilience, and developing positive coping skills
• Build trusting, consistent relationships to promote confidence and engagement
🤝 Behaviour Intervention
• Positively support challenging behaviour using school policies and behaviour plans
• Encourage positive decision-making, social interaction and self-regulation
🧩 SEN Support
• Work collaboratively with staff to implement personalised learning plans (EHCPs)
• Support children with additional needs such as ASD, ADHD, attachment needs, or anxiety
🌟 Wellbeing & Inclusion
• Promote a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment
• Encourage independence and celebrate small achievements
🗂 General Support
• Assist with classroom preparation, resource organisation and administrative tasks
Requirements:
✔ Experience working with SEMH, challenging behaviour, or vulnerable young people
✔ Strong understanding of emotional regulation and behaviour strategies
✔ Calm, patient and empathetic approach
✔ Ability to build strong, positive relationships with pupils
✔ Resilience and flexibility when working in demanding environments
✔ Experience in a school setting or SEN environment is highly desirable
✔ A valid Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)
Why Work With Ortus Recruitment?
• REC Corporate Members – committed to high standards and honest communication
• Welcoming schools with supportive leadership teams
• Opportunities for professional development (including CPD and safeguarding training)
• A chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children who need it most
If you’re passionate about supporting children with SEMH needs and want to help create a nurturing, stable and inspiring learning environment, we would love to hear from you.
📩 Apply today with your full CV.
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