At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with Autism and complex needs in a specialist school setting.
- Company: A fantastic specialist school in Reading dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, hands-on experience, and term-time only work.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and make a visible impact every day.
- Why this job: Gain real experience that sets you apart in your psychology career.
- Qualifications: Curiosity, empathy, and a passion for helping young people.
The predicted salary is between 19000 - 22000 £ per year.
If you’re dreaming of becoming a Clinical, Educational, or Child Psychologist, this is your chance to get stuck in, build real experience, and make a genuine difference—every single day. We’re on the lookout for an Aspiring Psychologist – Mental Health Support Worker to join a fantastic specialist school in Reading. The students here have a primary diagnosis of Autism, alongside co-existing needs like mental health challenges, speech and language difficulties, and emotional/behavioural regulation. In short? They need someone like you. Someone who is passionate and interested in making a difference.
The role:
- Supporting students in the classroom—helping them stay engaged, focused, and confident
- Providing hands‑on, practical support tailored to each student’s individual needs
- Assisting with interventions (think speech & language programmes, emotional regulation strategies, and structured routines)
- Helping students navigate social situations and build communication skills
- Being a consistent, encouraging presence in their school day
Why This Role is a Game-Changer for Aspiring Psychologists
This isn’t shadowing. This isn’t observing. This is real experience. You’ll:
- Work closely with students with Autism and complex needs
- See psychological theories play out in real life (and learn what actually works!)
- Gain invaluable experience for careers in Clinical Psychology, Educational Psychology, Speech & Language Therapy, or Mental Health Services
- Build confidence, resilience, and seriously impressive skills
What We’re Looking For
- Someone curious, proactive, and ready to learn
- Patience, empathy, and the ability to connect with young people
- A calm, positive attitude—even when things get challenging
- Bonus points if you’ve got experience with Autism or SEN (but not essential!)
The Best Bits
- Every day is different—expect small wins, big breakthroughs, and plenty of proud moments
- Work alongside a supportive team who genuinely care
- Make a real, visible difference in young people’s lives
- Walk away with experience that actually sets you apart
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’re serious about a future in psychology and want experience that truly matters, this is your moment. You can apply directly to this advert and you will be contacted if you are short‑listed.
Specialist School in Reading
ASAP Start
£95 - £110 per day
Full Time
Small class sizes
Amazing hands on experience
Term Time Only
Apply now and start building the career you’ve been studying for.
Aspiring Psychologist – Mental Health Support Worker employer: Academics Ltd
Join a supportive specialist school in Reading where you can make a genuine impact on the lives of students with Autism and complex needs. With small class sizes and a dedicated team, you'll gain invaluable hands-on experience that will set you apart in your journey towards becoming a Clinical or Educational Psychologist. Enjoy a dynamic work culture that celebrates every small win and breakthrough, while providing ample opportunities for personal and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Aspiring Psychologist – Mental Health Support Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the field of psychology, especially those working with Autism and mental health. Attend local events or workshops to meet people who can give you insights and possibly refer you to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Get hands-on experience! Volunteer or shadow at schools or organisations that support children with special educational needs. This will not only boost your CV but also give you real-life skills that are super valuable for your future career.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to mental health and Autism. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the role. We want you to show your passion and readiness to make a difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love hearing from passionate individuals like you who are eager to make an impact in the lives of young people.
We think you need these skills to ace Aspiring Psychologist – Mental Health Support Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for psychology and working with young people. Share any relevant experiences or interests that highlight your commitment to making a difference in their lives.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific needs of the role. Mention your understanding of Autism and how you can support students with their unique challenges.
Be Yourself:We want to get to know the real you! Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. Authenticity goes a long way in connecting with us.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of being noticed, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Academics Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of Autism and mental health challenges. Familiarise yourself with relevant psychological theories and interventions that could be beneficial for students. This will show your genuine interest and readiness to engage with the role.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your passion for helping young people shine through. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your empathy and patience. This is a role where connection is key, so make sure they see your enthusiasm for making a difference.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations with students. Think about examples from your past experiences or hypothetical scenarios. Practising these responses can help you articulate your thought process and demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few questions ready to ask the interviewer. Inquire about the support systems in place for staff, or how they measure student progress. This shows that you’re not just interested in the role, but also in the environment you’ll be working in.
