Confident with challenging behaviour and passionate about trauma-informed practice? Join our SEMH primary school in North Bristol and make a real difference every single day.
About the role
About the Role
Vision for Education are recruiting experienced SEMH Learning Support Assistants to work within a specialist SEMH primary school based in North Bristol.
This opportunity is ideal for individuals who have proven experience supporting children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and who are confident working within trauma-informed environments. As an SEMH Learning Support Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting pupils with complex emotional needs, attachment difficulties, and challenging behaviours, helping them feel safe, understood, and ready to learn.
As an SEMH Learning Support Assistant, your responsibilities may include:
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Working 1:1 or with small groups of pupils with SEMH needs
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Supporting children with emotional regulation using trauma-informed approaches
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Confidently managing and de-escalating challenging behaviours
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Building strong, consistent, and trusting relationships with pupils
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Supporting pupils with additional needs including ADHD, autism, attachment difficulties, and adverse childhood experiences
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Assisting teachers with classroom routines, adapted learning activities, and behaviour strategies
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Acting as a safe, reliable adult who promotes resilience, confidence, and positive outcomes
Every day in an SEMH primary setting is different. You will be supporting children who may present with dysregulated behaviour, emotional outbursts, or difficulty engaging in learning. Your role will be to remain calm, consistent, and compassionate while maintaining clear boundaries.
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking confident and resilient individuals who have:
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Experience working with children or young people with SEMH needs
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A strong understanding of trauma-informed practice
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Experience managing challenging behaviour in school, care, or youth settings
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The ability to remain calm under pressure and respond with empathy
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A proactive and adaptable approach
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A genuine passion for supporting vulnerable pupils
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An Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or willingness to obtain one (we can support with this)
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Availability to work within North Bristol
This role is best suited to individuals who are emotionally resilient, patient, and committed to making a long-term difference in children’s lives.
Flexible Work with Opportunities to Progress
This is a flexible supply opportunity, meaning:
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Work is offered on a 0-hour basis to suit your availability
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Opportunities include short-term, long-term, and temp-to-perm placements
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Many SEMH Learning Support Assistants go on to secure permanent positions within specialist schools
What We Offer
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Weekly pay via PAYE
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Competitive hourly rates
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Free CPD including behaviour management and trauma-informed training
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Ongoing professional development opportunities
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Pension contributions (subject to qualifying period)
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Refer-a-friend bonus scheme
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A dedicated consultant to support you throughout your placement
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Clear pathways into long-term and permanent SEMH roles
Why Work in an SEMH Primary School?
Working in an SEMH setting is a highly rewarding career path and an excellent step towards roles in:
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SEN Teaching
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Educational Psychology
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Youth and Community Work
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Social Care
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Pastoral and Inclusion Support
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Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)
You will gain meaningful, hands-on experience while making a genuine difference to children who need strong, supportive adults in their lives.
How to Apply
Apply today with your CV and contact details to begin your journey as an SEMH Learning Support Assistant in North Bristol. A member of our team will be in touch to discuss the next steps.
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