SEMH Teaching Assistant

Salary/Rate:£90 - £100
Job type:Contract
Town/City:Merton
County:South West London
Type of Role:Behaviour Mentor/Learning Mentor
Job ref:10652
Post Date:13.10.25
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Meet Our Recruiter

About the Role

SEMH Teaching Assistant – SEMH and Autism Support

Merton, South West London | £95 - £100 per day | PAYE only | Full-time | Temp to Permanent | ASAP Start

Do you believe that calm, consistent adult relationships can change a young person’s life?

A specialist school in Merton is looking for a Mental Health Teaching Assistant to join their dedicated team in September. This role is in a secondary setting that supports students aged 11–16 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs (SEMH), Autism, and ADHD.

This position isn’t about managing behaviour in the usual way. It focuses on understanding the child behind the behaviour, recognising trauma responses, and providing stability during important moments.

What makes this setting different?

It’s part of a respected Trust prioritising emotional wellbeing and long-term staff development. The leadership team values patience, emotional intelligence, and consistency. You’ll work with professionals who understand why this work is important and will support you in doing it well.

Your role as a SEMH Teaching Assistant:

  • Support secondary-aged students with SEMH, Autism, and ADHD
  • Provide 1:1 and small group interventions focused on emotional regulation and engagement
  • Use trauma-informed and attachment-aware approaches
  • Be a trusted, calming presence during challenging moments
  • Work closely with teachers, therapists, and pastoral leads

Key details:

  • Start date: ASAP/November
  • Location: Merton, South West London (good public transport and free parking)
  • Pay: £95 - £100 per day (depending on experience), PAYE only (no umbrella deductions)
  • Type: Full-time, temp to perm
  • Ongoing CPD and Trust-wide training included

This role would suit someone with experience as a:

  • Mental Health or Behaviour Support Assistant
  • Teaching Assistant in an SEMH or alternative provision setting
  • Youth Worker, Support Worker, or Residential Support Worker
  • Psychology graduate with practical SEND or mental health experience
  • Or simply someone with strong patience, emotional resilience, and a passion for inclusive education

Does this sound like the right next step for you?

If you’d like to find out more or apply, please contact Jamie Martinez at Parker Smith Inclusion or submit your CV today.

At Parker Smith Inclusion, we specialise in SEND recruitment. Our reputation is based on integrity and expertise. With over 350 five-star Google reviews, we are committed to finding the right leadership opportunities for exceptional educators.

Benefits of PS Inclusion supporting you in your Mental Health Teaching Assistant role search:

  • Tailored School Matches: We match you thoughtfully with schools that fit your experience and values.
  • Exclusive Opportunities: Many of our roles are only available through Parker Smith Inclusion.
  • Expert Knowledge: We provide honest insight into each school’s leadership, values, and expectations.
  • Transparent Pay Structure: All roles are PAYE only— no hidden deductions or umbrella companies.
  • Comprehensive Interview Support: From the application to the final stage, we’re with you every step of the way.
  • Specialist Settings: Work in schools that support SEMH, Autism, PMLD, and complex needs.

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