Special Needs Teaching Assistant

SPECIAL NEEDS TEACHING ASSISTANT (Full Time, Temporary to Permanent Opportunity)
Plymouth
Start Date: ASAP

Are you passionate about making a genuine difference in the lives of young people? Do you have the resilience, empathy, and drive to support students who need guidance beyond the traditional classroom setting?

GSL Education are proud to be working with a specialist SEMH provision in Plymouth, seeking MULTIPLE SEN TEACHING ASSISTANTS to join their team on a full-time basis, with a permanent position on offer.

MULTIPLE VACANCIES AVAILABLE.

About the Provision

This specialist setting supports students aged 5 16 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Many students also have additional needs outlined in their EHCPs, including Autism, ADHD, and Moderate Learning Difficulties.

The provision takes a highly personalised and therapeutic approach to education. Learning is often delivered in smaller groups or on a 1:1/ 2:1 basis, with a strong emphasis on engagement through activity-based learning, particularly sports and outdoor education. A significant portion of the role involves off-site sessions, helping students re-engage with learning in a more practical, relationship-driven environment.

The Role

As a Learning Mentor, you will:

• Build strong, trusting relationships with students who may display challenging behaviour
• Support students both on-site and off-site, often through sports-based or activity-led sessions
• Work closely with teaching staff and therapists to deliver tailored support plans
• Promote positive behaviour, emotional regulation, and social development
• Act as a consistent, reliable adult role model

This is a highly rewarding role where no two days are the same.

Who We re Looking For

We are keen to hear from individuals who:

• Have experience supporting children or young people with SEMH or challenging behaviour
• Come from education, youth work, care, or transferable backgrounds such as sports coaching
• Are confident working independently with students off-site
• Demonstrate patience, resilience, and a calm approach under pressure
• Are passionate about helping young people succeed both academically and personally

Sports Coaches often thrive in this role due to the active and engaging nature of the provision.

What GSL Education Offers

• A dedicated consultant with expert knowledge of the education sector
• Full support throughout the application and interview process
• Ongoing guidance to ensure the role is the right long-term fit
• Opportunity to secure a permanent position within a supportive and specialist setting

Why This Role?

This is more than just a job; it s a chance to have a lasting impact on young people who need the right support to thrive. You ll be part of a team that prioritises relationships, engagement, and individual success over traditional methods.

If you re ready to take the next step in your career and make a real difference, we d love to hear from you.

Apply today with GSL Education or get in touch to find out more.