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- Tasks: Support children with SEMH needs and complex behaviours in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Specialist SEMH primary school in Reading focused on child-centred support.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hands-on experience, and mentoring from professionals.
- Why this job: Gain valuable experience for a future career in Educational Psychology or mental health.
- Qualifications: Graduates in Psychology or related fields; genuine interest in child mental health.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to observe and learn from specialists.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 29000 £ per year.
A specialist SEMH primary school in Reading is seeking a Mental Health Assistant / SEN Teaching Assistant to support children aged 4-11 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and complex behaviours. This role is well suited to graduates considering a future career in Educational Psychology, mental health, therapeutic support, or SEN teaching, and offers excellent hands-on experience in a specialist setting.
The Teaching Assistant - Mental Health role:
- Support pupils with SEMH and complex needs on a 1:1 and small-group basis
- Assist with emotional regulation, behaviour support, and classroom engagement
- Work closely with teachers, therapists, counsellors, and educational psychologists
- Help maintain a safe, structured, and nurturing learning environment
- Build positive, consistent relationships with pupils
What the school offers to the Teaching Assistant - Mental Health:
- Daily exposure to on-site therapists and educational psychologists
- Mentoring and opportunities to observe specialist professionals
- Strong hands-on experience in SEMH and SEN support
- A supportive, child-centred specialist environment
Ideal candidate:
- Graduates in Psychology, Counselling, Criminology, or related fields (other degrees considered)
- Genuine interest in child mental health and SEN
- Resilient, proactive, and confident supporting challenging behaviour
- Previous SEN or mental health experience desirable but not essential
Key details:
- Start: ASAP
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-3:30pm
- Location: Reading, Berkshire
Teaching Assistant (Mental Health) in Reading employer: Academics Ltd.
Contact Detail:
Academics Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant (Mental Health) in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education and mental health fields. Let them know you're on the lookout for a Teaching Assistant role, especially in SEMH settings. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local community events or workshops related to mental health and education. This not only boosts your CV but also helps you meet potential employers and like-minded individuals. Plus, it shows your commitment to the field!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions specific to mental health and SEN roles. Think about scenarios where you've supported others or dealt with challenging behaviours. We want you to shine and show how you can make a difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might be perfect for you. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates. Let's get you that Teaching Assistant role!
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant (Mental Health) in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Teaching Assistant role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that align with supporting children with SEMH needs. We want to see how you can make a difference!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for child mental health and SEN shine through in your application. Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you to work in this field. We love seeing genuine interest!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate when candidates communicate effectively, as it reflects how you might interact with pupils.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Academics Ltd.
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the basics of Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Familiarise yourself with common challenges faced by children in this area, as well as strategies for emotional regulation and behaviour support. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Even if you don’t have direct experience in SEN or mental health, think about any relevant skills or experiences you can bring to the table. Whether it’s volunteering, coursework, or personal experiences, be ready to discuss how these have prepared you for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the school's approach to supporting SEMH needs or how they integrate therapists and educational psychologists into their daily routine. It shows you're engaged and genuinely interested in the position.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity goes a long way! Be honest about your motivations for wanting to work in this field and how you connect with the role. Building positive relationships is key in this job, so let your personality shine through during the interview.
