SEN Learning Support Assistant

Contract Type:

Full-Time | Temp to Perm | September 2025 Start

About the Role:

Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs?

We’re recruiting for a brand-new SEMH specialist school opening in Plymouth this September (2025), and we’re looking for hands-on, resilient, and compassionate Behaviour Support Assistants to be part of the founding team.

This is a unique opportunity to help shape a school from day one—working alongside experienced educators and leaders who are building an inclusive and trauma-informed environment for pupils who have previously struggled in mainstream settings.

What We’re Looking For:

We're particularly keen to hear from candidates with experience in:

• PRUs (Pupil Referral Units)
• SEMH or SEN schools
• Youth work or residential support
• Challenging behaviour or trauma-informed settings

If you’ve worked with young people in difficult circumstances and know how to build trust, manage behaviour positively, and de-escalate high-stress situations, this could be the perfect next step.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide one-to-one and small group support to pupils with SEMH needs
• Support students with behavioural regulation and emotional wellbeing
• Be actively involved in creating a safe, therapeutic learning environment
• Contribute to individual learning and behaviour plans
• Work closely with teaching staff, therapists, and leaders to deliver holistic support
• Engage in training and professional development from the outset

Why Join This Role?

• Be part of a newly built SEMH school with modern facilities
• Join a founding team—a chance to help shape culture and practice from day one
• Opportunities for temp-to-perm progression after an initial period
• Daily pay of £95-£110, depending on experience
• Full support from Zen Educate, including onboarding and ongoing guidance

Requirements:

• Relevant experience in PRU, care, SEMH, or SEN environments (essential)
• Resilience, empathy, and a calm, firm approach to behaviour
• Must be confident working in a dynamic, high-need setting
• Full-time availability from September 2025
• DBS on the update service or willingness to apply

How to Apply:

Once you’ve completed your Zen Educate profile, we’ll be in touch to discuss next steps and interview availability.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of something meaningful from the ground up.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From £95.00 per day

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person