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- Tasks: Support students' emotional wellbeing and help them overcome challenges in a secondary school setting.
- Company: Well-regarded secondary school in Braintree, committed to student mental health.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, ongoing training, and a supportive pastoral team.
- Other info: Full-time role with excellent career development opportunities in psychology or social work.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience in mental health support.
- Qualifications: Experience with young people and strong communication skills are preferred.
The predicted salary is between 18900 - 25200 £ per year.
Are you a passionate mental health officer ready to step into an educational setting? Do you have the empathy, resilience, and communication skills needed to support students facing emotional or behavioural challenges?
Braintree, Essex
ASAP 2026 - potential to be until July 2027
Secondary School - Mental Health Assistant / Teaching Assistant
Monday - Friday, 8:30am-3:30pm
Pay: £90-£120 per day (depending on experience)
Applications close: 30/07/26
Interviews: CVs being reviewed now up until Summer term, interviews taking place, Trial Day - onboarded if successful.
We are working with a well-regarded Secondary School in Braintree that is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Mental Health Assistant to join their pastoral and support team. This Braintree school is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where students feel supported both academically and emotionally. The school places a strong emphasis on student wellbeing and mental health, with a growing investment in pastoral care, emotional support services, and early intervention strategies to help students thrive throughout their secondary education.
Job Overview:
- This school caters for students aged 11-16.
- Full-time, Monday - Friday, Mental Health Assistant role.
- Provide emotional and pastoral support to students across KS3-KS4.
- Support students experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, behavioural challenges, or emotional regulation difficulties.
- Work closely with the SEN, safeguarding, and pastoral teams to support student wellbeing.
- Build positive and trusting relationships with vulnerable students.
- Support students both within lessons and through targeted intervention sessions.
- Promote positive behaviour, emotional resilience, and student engagement.
- Monitor and report wellbeing concerns in line with safeguarding procedures.
- Liaise with parents, carers, and external agencies where appropriate.
- Contribute to creating a safe, calm, and supportive school environment.
This Mental Health Assistant role in Braintree offers an excellent opportunity for individuals considering careers in psychology, counselling, social work, youth work, SEN, or mental health services. The school offers ongoing training, development opportunities, and the chance to work within a highly supportive pastoral team.
What we’re looking for:
- Previous experience working with young people, mental health, SEN, or behavioural support is desirable.
- A patient, empathetic, and resilient approach.
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations.
- Passion for supporting young people's emotional wellbeing and development.
- Good behaviour management and organisational skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with staff, families, and external professionals.
- Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one).
What’s next? Click "Apply Now" and, if your application is successful, you will be contacted for a phone call OR contact Ellie directly from Academics, Chelmsford TODAY.
Mental Health Assistant -Secondary School in Braintree employer: Academics
Contact Detail:
Academics Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Mental Health Assistant -Secondary School in Braintree
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research their values and approach to mental health support. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Role-play common interview questions with a friend or family member. This will help you articulate your experiences and demonstrate your empathy and resilience effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff at the school on LinkedIn. They can provide insights into the school's culture and might even give you a heads-up about what the interviewers are looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Mental Health Assistant -Secondary School in Braintree
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Make sure to express your passion for mental health and supporting young people in your application. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in students' lives!
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience, especially any work with young people or in mental health settings. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role of a Mental Health Assistant.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make sure your skills and experiences shine without unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity in Braintree.
How to prepare for a job interview at Academics
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Mental Health Assistant in a secondary school setting. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges students face and how you can support their emotional wellbeing. This will show your passion and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
During the interview, be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy and resilience in past experiences. Whether it's through previous work or personal situations, illustrating your ability to connect with young people will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the school's approach to mental health and pastoral care. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the school's values align with yours. Think about asking how they measure student wellbeing or what support systems are in place.
✨Be Professional Yet Approachable
While it's important to maintain professionalism, don't forget to let your personality shine through. The school is looking for someone who can build trusting relationships with students, so being warm and approachable during the interview can set you apart from other candidates.