At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students' emotional wellbeing and build trusting relationships in a secondary school setting.
- Company: Well-regarded secondary school in Braintree focused on student mental health.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, ongoing training, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Great opportunity for those interested in psychology, counselling, or youth 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 23400 - 31200 € 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 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 OverviewThis 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).
Mental Health Assistant -Secondary School in Braintree) employer: Academics
Join a well-regarded Secondary School in Braintree that prioritises student wellbeing and mental health, offering a nurturing environment for both students and staff. As a Mental Health Assistant, you will benefit from ongoing training and development opportunities while working alongside a compassionate pastoral team dedicated to making a positive impact on young lives. This role not only allows you to support students facing emotional challenges but also provides a pathway for personal growth in the fields of psychology, counselling, and social work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mental Health Assistant -Secondary School in Braintree)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education and mental health sectors. Let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities, especially in schools like the one in Braintree. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the school’s values and their approach to mental health support. Be ready to share how your skills and experiences align with their mission. Practising common interview questions can also help you feel more confident when it’s your turn to shine.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion! During interviews or networking events, talk about why you care about supporting young people's mental health. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your empathy and resilience. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly understands the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources and tips to help you land that Mental Health Assistant role. Plus, applying directly through us means you’ll be in the loop for any updates or additional opportunities that come up.
We think you need these skills to ace Mental Health Assistant -Secondary School in Braintree)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for mental health and supporting students shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in making a difference in young people's lives!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure to customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We love seeing how your background aligns with our values and the role of a Mental Health Assistant.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the role.
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 get the ball rolling on your journey to joining our supportive team.
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 them. Research the school’s values and their approach to mental health and wellbeing.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, demonstrate your empathy and understanding of mental health issues. Share personal experiences or examples from previous roles where you’ve successfully supported young people. This will show that you’re not just qualified but genuinely passionate about helping students.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask the interviewers. Inquire about their current mental health initiatives or how they measure student wellbeing. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the school’s environment aligns with your values.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios
Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Think about how you would handle specific situations involving students with emotional or behavioural challenges. Practising these responses can help you feel more confident during the interview.
