Job Description

Do you believe every child deserves someone in their corner - no matter what?
At The Haefen, we know that children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) need to have someone who sees their potential, listens when no one else does, and helps them find the confidence to shine. That's why we're looking for a caring and resilient SEMH Learning Support Assistant who can bring patience, empathy, and creativity into every day.

This is more than a classroom role - it's a chance to change a life.
You'll be part of a small, dedicated team where relationships come first, and where every success, no matter how small, is celebrated. If you can keep calm in the tough moments, share in the joy of the good ones, and believe that progress is possible for every child, we'd love to hear from you.

About Us
The Haefen is a small, nurturing Independent Primary School for children with SEMH needs. Our approach is centred on relationships, emotional wellbeing, and helping every child find a pathway to success.

Purpose of the Role
We are seeking a caring, resilient, and skilled SEMH Learning Support Assistant to join our dedicated team. You will work with pupils both 1:1, 1:2 and in small groups, supporting them to access learning, develop self-confidence, and manage their emotions in a safe and structured environment.

Key Responsibilities
Support the learning and development of pupils with SEMH needs under the direction of the class teacher, SENCo, Deputy Head of School and Head of School.

Build strong, trusting relationships that encourage pupils to engage with learning and try new experiences.

Help children regulate their emotions using agreed behaviour management strategies and de-escalation techniques.

Adapt and create resources to meet the needs of individual learners.

Assist with transitions, breaktimes, and school trips to ensure all pupils feel safe and included.

Work with colleagues, therapists, and external agencies to provide a joined-up approach to support.

Follow all safeguarding procedures and report concerns promptly to the Designated Safeguarding Lead.

What We're Looking For
Essential

Experience supporting children with SEMH or additional needs.

Patience, empathy, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

Good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.

Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Desirable

Relevant qualifications in education, child development, or special needs (e.g., CACHE/NVQ).

Training in positive handling approaches such as PRICE

Understanding of trauma-informed practice.

What We Offer
A warm and supportive team environment.

Training and ongoing professional development.

The opportunity to make a real and lasting difference in children's lives.

This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and reference checks in line with safer recruitment procedures.

We would advise that early applications are advised as we reserve the right to close the advert early if a suitable candidate is found.

Information about the School

LIFE Education Trust is opening a new independent special school to support pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. The Haefen, set in a beautiful open location, on farmland, with access to woodland and a private beach area, aims to create a nurturing, structured and inclusive learning environment where every young person feels safe, supported and able to achieve their full potential. Subject to DfE approval, we hope that this incredible school will be ready to welcome pupils in the Autumn Term.

Our school will provide a highly supportive setting with small class sizes, a strong pastoral approach and a dedicated team committed to improving outcomes for children who may have experienced barriers to learning in mainstream education.

We aim to inspire and nurture every child so that they can live, believe, and achieve their true potential.