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Primary SEMH Teaching Assistant | Full Time | Cheltenham

At Tradewind Recruitment, we work in close partnership with specialist provisions across Gloucestershire that cater to children and young people of all ages. This particular provision is dedicated to supporting children with social, emotional and mental health needs at the earliest stage. We understand that for younger pupils, consistency, trust and positive relationships are key - and that the right SEMH Teaching Assistant can make a lasting difference to a child's emotional wellbeing and love of learning.

We are currently seeking Primary SEMH Teaching Assistants to support a nurturing specialist setting in the Cheltenham area. We are looking to cover a range of staffing needs ranging from ad hoc sickness or training cover to more consistent requirement. Ideally this provision is looking for someone warm, patient and confident in supporting young children who require a therapeutic and highly supportive approach to education.
You will also need to have a strong background in primary SEMH education and supporting children who at times present their frustration physically and verbally.

About the Role
As a Primary SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will support pupils in Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 who may present with emotional regulation difficulties, anxiety, attachment needs and challenging behaviour. Many pupils have experienced trauma, disrupted early education or adverse childhood experiences and benefit from a calm, predictable and low-arousal learning environment.

You will work closely with class teachers, pastoral teams and specialist staff to help children feel safe, supported and ready to learn. Support will include 1:1 and small-group work, emotional regulation strategies, sensory-based interventions and encouragement with early literacy, phonics and numeracy.

What We're Looking For

Experience supporting primary-aged children, ideally within SEMH or SEN settings
A nurturing, trauma-informed approach to behaviour and emotional development
Confidence supporting phonics, early reading and engagement in learning
Ability to remain calm, consistent and positive during emotional dysregulation
Strong communication skills and a team-focused mindset
A genuine passion for helping young children build confidence, resilience and trust

Why Work with Tradewind Recruitment?
When you work with Tradewind, you are supported by a people-first team who value your wellbeing and professional growth. We focus on placements where staff feel respected, supported and able to make a real impact.

Your pay matters: competitive daily rates and honest, expert advice
Your development matters: free access to 2,500+ CPD courses through the National College
Your flexibility matters: long-term, short-term and permanent opportunities available
Your wellbeing matters: proud Sunday Times Top 100 Employer for four consecutive years
We are an Equal Opportunities Employer committed to inclusive educationIf you're a compassionate and resilient Primary SEMH Teaching Assistant who believes early intervention can change lives, we'd love to hear from you