At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with SEMH needs through 1:1 mentoring and group activities.
- Company: Specialist school in Reading dedicated to mental health support.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, full-time hours, and invaluable experience for psychology careers.
- Other info: Fast-paced, rewarding role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills in mental health.
- Qualifications: Passion for mental health, empathy, and a willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 23400 - 28600 £ per year.
We're searching for a Mental Health Assistant to join a specialist school in Reading, supporting students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. These young people are bright, resilient, and full of potential - but many have faced significant challenges in their lives and need the right support to help them succeed. No two days are the same in this role. It's fast-paced, rewarding, emotional, and genuinely life-changing - for both the students and for you.
What You'll Be Doing
- You will work closely with students on a 1:1 basis and in small groups, helping them feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.
- Helping students manage emotions and develop healthy coping strategies.
- Building trusted relationships that give students confidence and stability.
- Supporting social development and modelling positive behaviours.
- Working alongside teachers, therapists, and pastoral teams to provide consistent support.
- Being the calm, encouraging presence students can rely on - especially on difficult days.
What We're Looking For
- You don't need to know everything already - but you do need the right mindset.
- Passionate about mental health and supporting young people.
- Patient, empathetic and positive.
- Ready to learn and grow every day.
- A strong team player with a good understanding of safeguarding.
The Details
- Specialist school based in Reading.
- ASAP Start – September start available too!
- £90 – £110 per day.
- Full time.
- Ideal for psychology graduates.
- Incredible hands-on experience for future career in psychology and mental health.
SEMH Support Assistant – 1:1 Student Mentoring (Reading) employer: Academics
Join a dedicated team at our specialist school in Reading, where we prioritise the mental health and well-being of our students. As an SEMH Support Assistant, you'll benefit from a supportive work culture that values empathy and collaboration, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development in the field of psychology. Experience the rewarding nature of this role as you make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people, all while working in a vibrant and dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEMH Support Assistant – 1:1 Student Mentoring (Reading)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the mental health field, whether it's through LinkedIn or local meetups. We all know that sometimes it's not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the school and its approach to SEMH support. We want you to show them you're not just passionate about mental health, but that you understand their specific needs and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to share your experiences! Whether it's volunteering, internships, or personal stories, we want you to highlight how these have shaped your understanding of mental health and working with young people. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and making a difference in students' lives.
We think you need these skills to ace SEMH Support Assistant – 1:1 Student Mentoring (Reading)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for mental health and supporting young people shine through in your application. Share any relevant experiences or insights that highlight why you're passionate about this role.
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 SEMH needs and how you can contribute to our supportive environment.
Be Yourself:We want to get to know the real you! Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your writing. Authenticity goes a long way in showing us that you’re the right fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This helps us keep track of your application and ensures it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Academics
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of SEMH needs and the challenges students face. Familiarise yourself with relevant theories and strategies that can help support young people. This will show your passion for mental health and your commitment to making a difference.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated patience and empathy in past experiences. Whether it's through volunteering, work, or personal experiences, showing that you understand the emotional landscape of young people will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the role and the school’s approach to supporting students. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your values and goals. Think about asking how they measure success in supporting students with SEMH needs.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity is key! The interviewers want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Share your motivations for wanting to work in this field and how you plan to grow and learn in the role. A genuine connection can make all the difference.
