Level 3 SEMH Teaching Assistant

Vacancy: Level 3 SEMH Teaching Assistant

The Opossum Federation is seeking a dedicated and resilient individual to join the founding team of a brand-new Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) provision at Thorpe Hall Primary School. This is a pivotal initiative designed to provide high-quality, specialised support for pupils with complex needs, with plans to expand the provision to 10 places.

Role Overview

Workplace: Thorpe Hall Primary School, Walthamstow.

Salary: Scale 4 Points 7-11 (Outer London). £30,288 - £32,070 FTE (£26,059.07 - £27,592.26 Pro rata).

Contract: Permanent, 36 hours per week, 44.86 weeks per year.

Start Date: September 2026.

Key Responsibilities

As a key member of this new setting, you will work closely with the Lead Teacher and federation leaders to:

Support & Implementation: Prepare and deliver specialized learning support tailored to pupils with complex SEMH needs and assist in assessing small-step progress.

Behavioral Support: Implement school policies using trauma-informed practice and positive behavior approaches.

Pupil Integration: Support the review of EHCP targets and the reintegration of pupils into mainstream education.

Collaboration: Liaise with families and external professionals (such as CAMHS and EPS) to provide holistic support.

Candidate Requirements

The Opossum Federation is looking for candidates who possess:

Qualifications: A Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (or equivalent) and appropriate first aid training.

Experience: Relevant experience in a Primary or Early Years setting. Experience in specialised SEND settings or with SEMH needs is highly desirable.

Knowledge: An understanding of the SEN Code of Practice, EHCP processes, and various therapeutic interventions.

Personal Attributes: Resilience, effective communication skills, and a commitment to promoting high standards of behavior and inclusive education.

Why Join the Opossum Federation?

Supportive Culture: Benefit from a tailored CPD program, a comprehensive induction for new staff, and a strong focus on staff well-being and workload reduction.

Proven Excellence: Join a family of schools where two are rated 'Outstanding' and two are rated 'Good' by Ofsted.

Modern Resources: Work in a well-resourced environment featuring Google for Education integration and dedicated staff devices.

How to Apply

Application Method: Download an application pack from any Opossum Federation school website.

Submission: Send completed applications to hr@opossumed.org.

Closing Date: Sunday 10 May 2026.

Interviews: Scheduled for the week commencing 18 May 2026.

Safeguarding Note: All appointments are subject to pre-employment checks, including enhanced DBS clearance and satisfactory references. Candidates must submit a self-disclosure form with their application.