At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with emotional needs and behavioural challenges in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Outstanding mainstream Primary school in Havering, London with excellent resources.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, full-time hours, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Start in September 2026 with great transport links and career growth potential.
- Why this job: Gain invaluable experience working alongside therapists and psychologists while making a real difference.
- Qualifications: Ideal for Psychology/Counselling graduates or experienced SEN TAs with relevant qualifications.
The predicted salary is between 23100 - 28000 £ per year.
Would you like to build your experience working with Complex Needs and work alongside trained therapists, counsellors and psychologists? An outstanding mainstream Primary school in Havering, London is currently recruiting a SEN Teaching Assistant to support children with Social and Emotional Mental Health Needs.
Located in the heart of Havering, London, we are looking for bright and enthusiastic individuals who have qualified in Psychology, Counselling, Criminology or Education. Candidates with relevant experience will also be considered!
This is a full-time position with the view of successful candidates being able to start in September 2026. As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you will be working 1:1 and in small groups with children across EYFS, KS1 & KS2, assisting pupils with emotional needs and behavioural challenges and supporting individual wellbeing and personal development.
This is an excellent opportunity for the successful mental health assistant to work alongside the therapists and psychologists based on-site at the school. You will be mentored and have the opportunity to shadow sessions and learn from them, gaining invaluable experience working with Special Needs and Mental Health issues.
This is a great opportunity for an aspiring educational or occupational psychologist, therapeutic support worker or SEN teacher.
- Key Information
- SEN Teaching Assistant
- Mental Health Assistant
- Social and Emotional Mental Health Support
- Havering, London
- September 2026 start
- Contract until July 2027 at least
- £92 - £120 per day
- Full-time Mon-Fri 8.30am to 4pm
- Ideal for Psychology/Counselling Graduates/ Experienced SEN TAs
- Excellent education and training opportunities
The school has fantastic resources and state-of-the-art facilities to support the children across all year groups. If you have previous experience as a teaching assistant and understand their complex needs and are open-minded and up for a challenge, this could be the next step in your career. Suitable experience can include working with SEN children and/or adults in any setting, even on a personal level such as with family. Level 3 qualifications+ are also required and a Degree would be most desirable.
Mental Health Assistant/ SEN Teaching Assistant in London) employer: Academics
Join an outstanding mainstream Primary school in Havering, London, where you will have the unique opportunity to work alongside trained therapists and psychologists, gaining invaluable experience in supporting children with Social and Emotional Mental Health Needs. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth, offering excellent training opportunities and mentorship, making it an ideal environment for aspiring educational professionals. With great transport links and state-of-the-art facilities, this role not only promises meaningful work but also a chance to make a real difference in the lives of our students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mental Health Assistant/ SEN Teaching Assistant in London)
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at Academics. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like Academics.
We think you need these skills to ace Mental Health Assistant/ SEN Teaching Assistant in London)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for Academics:Take some time to research Academics and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Academics
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for Academics's values and approach.
