At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vulnerable young people with emotional and mental health challenges in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Specialist Alternative Provision setting focused on personalised education.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hands-on experience, and supportive team environment.
- Other info: Outstanding opportunity for aspiring psychologists with strong mentorship and career development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while gaining valuable experience for your future career.
- Qualifications: Psychology graduate or related field, passionate about supporting young people.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 25000 £ per year.
Are you a Psychology graduate looking to gain invaluable experience working with vulnerable young people before pursuing a career in Clinical Psychology, Educational Psychology, Counselling, Mental Health or Social Work? This is an exciting opportunity for a Mental Health Assistant to join a specialist Alternative Provision setting supporting children and young people aged 5-16 who require a more personalised and nurturing approach to education.
As a Mental Health Assistant, you will support students who may have experienced barriers to learning, social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) challenges, behavioural difficulties, trauma, low self-esteem or disrupted educational journeys. The school is committed to helping young people rebuild confidence, re-engage with learning and achieve positive outcomes for their future.
The successful Mental Health Assistant will work within small class groups, receiving support from a multidisciplinary team including teachers, mentors, therapists and pastoral staff. The setting takes a trauma-informed and restorative approach, focusing on building positive relationships, resilience, emotional literacy and self-confidence.
The Role
- Supporting students with SEMH needs and behavioural challenges
- Working as a Mental Health Assistant to promote emotional wellbeing and engagement
- Building positive, trusting relationships with young people
- Supporting emotional regulation and social skills development
- Assisting students both inside and outside the classroom
- Helping pupils develop confidence, resilience and independence
- Working closely with teachers, mentors and external professionals
Ideal Candidate
- Psychology Graduate or graduate from a related subject
- Aspiring Clinical Psychologist, Educational Psychologist, Counsellor or Therapist
- Passionate about supporting vulnerable children and young people
- Calm, resilient and empathetic
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Previous experience working with children, young people or vulnerable adults is desirable
Why Apply
- Outstanding experience for aspiring psychologists
- Gain hands‑on experience supporting SEMH and behavioural needs
- Work within small classes and highly supportive teams
- Learn from experienced mentors, therapists and education professionals
- Develop knowledge of trauma-informed and restorative practice
- Make a genuine difference to young people's lives every day
This Mental Health Assistant role offers an exceptional foundation for graduates looking to build a career in psychology, mental health or specialist education. If you're looking for a rewarding and meaningful Mental Health Assistant position where you can support young people to overcome barriers and achieve success, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today to become a Mental Health Assistant and start making a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people.
Mental Health Assistant - Headington) in Oxford employer: Academics
Join a dedicated team in Headington, Oxford, where your role as a Mental Health Assistant will not only provide you with invaluable experience but also allow you to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable young people. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth through collaboration with experienced mentors and a multidisciplinary team, ensuring you develop essential skills in trauma-informed practices while contributing to a nurturing educational environment. With a focus on emotional wellbeing and resilience, this is an excellent opportunity for aspiring psychologists to gain hands-on experience in a rewarding setting.
