At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with SEMH needs, helping them manage emotions and build relationships.
- Company: Specialist school in Reading focused on mental health and child development.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hands-on experience, and valuable skills for future careers.
- Other info: Full-time role with ASAP start and excellent growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young lives while applying your psychology knowledge.
- Qualifications: Psychology degree, genuine interest in mental health, and a positive attitude.
The predicted salary is between 24750 - 28650 £ per year.
Turn your psychology degree into real-world impact. Are you a psychology graduate who wants more than just theory? Ready to step into a role where every day challenges you, stretches you, and genuinely matters? We're looking for a Mental Health Assistant to join a specialist school in Reading supporting young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. These students are resilient, complex, and full of potential – many have experienced adverse childhood experiences, including neglect, and need the right support to thrive.
This isn't your typical classroom role. It's hands‑on, heart‑led, and deeply rewarding. You will be working with students one‑to‑one or in small groups, focusing on their personalised intervention plans and ensuring they are able to access their education in the same way as their mainstream peers.
What You'll Be Doing
- Supporting students in managing emotional regulation – helping them understand, express, and cope with big feelings.
- Building meaningful relationships that create a sense of safety and trust.
- Guiding students through social interactions, modelling and coaching positive behaviours.
- Working closely with teachers, therapists, and pastoral staff to provide consistent, trauma‑informed support.
- Being a calm, steady presence – even on the tough days.
Why This Role Is Perfect for Psychology Graduates
This is your chance to take everything you've learned‑attachment theory, trauma, behaviour, cognition‑and see it come alive in real time. You'll gain:
- Direct experience working with vulnerable young people.
- Insight into trauma‑informed practice and therapeutic approaches.
- Skills highly valued in careers like clinical psychology, educational psychology, counselling, and social work.
- Stories, resilience, and perspective you simply can't get from a textbook.
What We're Looking For
- Genuine interest in mental health and child development.
- Patience, empathy, and a positive attitude.
- A willingness to learn – every single day.
- An understanding of the importance of safeguarding.
What You Need to Know
- Reading based specialist school.
- ASAP Start.
- £95 – £110 per day.
- Great hands‑on experience.
- Full time.
Mental Health Assistant — SEMH (Psychology Grad) employer: Academics
Join a supportive and dynamic team at our specialist school in Reading, where your role as a Mental Health Assistant will not only allow you to apply your psychology knowledge but also make a tangible difference in the lives of young people with SEMH needs. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative work culture that values empathy, continuous learning, and professional growth, offering you unique opportunities to develop skills that are essential for future careers in psychology and related fields. With a focus on trauma-informed practices and a commitment to creating a safe and nurturing environment, this is an ideal place for passionate psychology graduates looking to turn their academic insights into meaningful real-world impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mental Health Assistant — SEMH (Psychology Grad)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university alumni, join psychology-related groups on social media, and attend local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Tailor your approach! When you find a role that excites you, research the school and its values. Use this info to craft a personal pitch when you reach out to them directly. Show them why you're the perfect fit for their team!
✨Tip Number 3
Get hands-on experience! Volunteer or shadow professionals in the field. This not only boosts your CV but also gives you real-world insights into the challenges and rewards of working with young people with SEMH needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find roles that match your passion for mental health. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to making a difference in students' lives.
We think you need these skills to ace Mental Health Assistant — SEMH (Psychology Grad)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your genuine interest in mental health and child development right from the start. Share any relevant experiences or insights that highlight why you’re excited about this role and how your psychology degree has prepared you for it.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and qualities we’re looking for. Mention your understanding of trauma-informed practices and how you can apply your knowledge to support our students effectively.
Be Authentic:We want to get to know the real you! Don’t be afraid to share your personality and values in your application. Highlight your patience, empathy, and positive attitude, as these are key traits for a Mental Health Assistant.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right people quickly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Academics
✨Know Your Stuff
Brush up on key psychological theories and concepts, especially those related to SEMH. Be ready to discuss how your academic knowledge can translate into practical support for students facing emotional challenges.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, share personal experiences or examples that highlight your patience and understanding. This role is all about building trust with students, so demonstrating your empathetic nature will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare questions that show your genuine interest in the role and the school’s approach to mental health. Inquire about their trauma-informed practices or how they measure student progress, which will demonstrate your commitment to supporting vulnerable young people.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios
Expect scenario-based questions where you might need to explain how you'd handle specific situations with students. Think through potential challenges and how you would apply your skills to help students manage their emotions and behaviours effectively.
