Higher Level Teaching Assistant (Social, Emotional and Mental Health)
Overview
Required for September 2026
HIGHER LEVEL TEACHING ASSISTANT (Social, Emotional and Mental Health)
GRADE 9 Pt 18 - Pt 23: FTE
35 hours per week, term time only plus 5 days
Permanent Contract
The Derby High School in Bury, Greater Manchester, is seeking to appoint a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (Social, Emotional and Mental Health). We are looking for someone with the relevant qualifications, skills and experience who has a passion and commitment to improving the Speech, Language and Communication outcomes of students. This is an exciting new role and, working under the direction of the Assistant Headteacher – SEND. The post-holder will have the opportunity to make a significant difference to the success of students of students at The Derby High School.
The Derby High School is currently the highest performing school within the Local Authority, and we have sustained this position for a number of years. We are a highly inclusive school serving a diverse student population who are a joy to be around. The leadership of the school at every level is a key strength and this was recognised by Ofsted in our most recent full inspection. We boast a talented staff with a commitment to delivering the highest standards and who are overwhelmingly proud to belong to the school. All who visit The Derby High School are impressed by our warm and welcoming environment.
You should consider applying if you can bring the following to our school: -
- Experience of working with students who have barriers to learning related to their social, emotional and mental health (SEMH), including an understanding of trauma-informed approaches.
- Experience of working within a school environment (ideally Primary or Secondary sectors).
- We are particularly interested in candidates with experience of planning and delivering targeted SEMH interventions, including those that support emotional regulation, resilience and self-esteem.
- Ability to plan and deliver structured, adaptive work for small groups of students with diverse SEMH needs.
- Ability to build safe, trusting and consistent relationships with pupils to support engagement, behaviour for learning and emotional wellbeing.
- Ability to recognise and respond appropriately to dysregulated behaviour, using de-escalation strategies and positive behaviour support approaches.
- Understanding of attachment-aware practice and its impact on learning and behaviour.
- Ability to work effectively with parents and carers to provide guidance and consistency in strategies that support social, emotional and mental health.
- Commitment to promoting inclusion and removing barriers to learning for vulnerable learners.
- Excellent organisational, record-keeping and communication skills, including the ability to contribute to support plans and reviews.
- Ability to work independently with initiative, while also contributing positively to a wider pastoral or inclusion team.
- Strong relationship-building skills with pupils, staff and external professionals.
- Flexibility, resilience and adaptability when responding to the changing needs of students.
- Values that are aligned with The Derby’s vision and values – Inspired to Make a Difference.
We believe that The Derby High School is a great place to be. This post offers you the opportunity to work in/with:
- A successful school with a strong will and determination to continue to improve.
- A school that has high expectations of all who work here.
- A school that places teaching and learning at the heart of school improvement.
- A school that is driven by strong values, invests in its staff and students and has a high regard for
their welfare.
- A supportive and cooperative staff who are committed to their roles.
- A school that works effectively with all stakeholders.
- A caring school where you can make a real difference to the lives of young people.
We will encourage you to be innovative and creative and provide professional development that will support you in your future career plans.
In line with our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our students, appointment will be subject to a full DBS check and references. Please note that in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2022 an online search will be carried out as part of our due diligence on shortlisted candidates.
To apply for this post, please download and complete the application form and provide a letter of application and email to Mrs S Silgram-Clynes, Headteachers PA at headteacherspa@thederbyhighschool.co.uk
CLOSING DATE: Friday 10th July- 9:00 am
