Social, Emotional & Mental Health Support Assistant – Children & Young People

Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) Support Assistant – Children & Young People

Cramlington area – Northumberland – Specialist SEND & SEMH School

Start date: 1st September 2026

Full-time, Monday to Friday, 8.30am-3.00pm

Are you passionate about supporting young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs? Do you have the resilience, empathy and confidence to make a real difference to their lives every day?

We are currently recruiting for a dedicated SEMH Learning Support Assistant to join a wonderful specialist secondary school provision in the NE23 area. There are multiple opportunities available, initially for a full academic year from September 2026, with the potential for roles to become permanent for the right candidates.

About the School

This welcoming secondary school setting provides a supportive and inclusive environment for pupils aged 11-17 years old with a range of additional needs, who have often experienced trauma. The school places a strong focus on pastoral care, ensuring students feel safe, understood and supported throughout their education.

With a committed staff team and a strong behaviour support approach, the school promotes consistency, structure and positive relationship building. Staff work closely together to support pupils both academically and emotionally, helping them to re-engage with learning and build confidence.

The Role: 

As a SEMH Learning Support Assistant, you will:

• Provide 1:1 and small group support to pupils with SEMH needs
• Support students with emotional regulation and engagement in lessons
• Act as a positive role model, encouraging confidence and resilience
• Help manage and de-escalate displays of challenging behaviour
• Support pupils during lessons, transitions and break times
• Work closely with teaching staff and pastoral teams

The Ideal Candidate:

• Prior experience working with children/young people with SEND, SEMH or behavioural needs
• A confident, proactive & resilient approach – not afraid to ‘get stuck in’
• A calm demeaner, with an ability to build positive relationships
• An understanding of behaviour management & de-escalation strategies
• A clear passion for supporting vulnerable young people

Team Teach (or similar) training is desirable, but not essential – as training can be provided in school.

About Milk Education

Milk Education is a purpose-driven supply agency that puts people first. We are committed to supporting schools and providing high-quality staff who make a meaningful difference to the lives of children and young people.

Milk Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We are proudly APSCo Compliance+ accredited, reflecting our dedication to the highest standards in safer recruitment. All applicants will be subject to thorough compliance checks in line with DfE, Keeping Children Safe in Education, and APSCo guidelines. 

Milk Education is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals.

Apply now by submitting your CV or contact Helen for more information:

[phone removed]

helen.brereton@milk-education.co.uk

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