At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with SEMH needs using creative art activities to enhance emotional expression.
- Company: Join a supportive educational environment focused on mental health and creativity.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, valuable experience in art therapy, and term-time hours.
- Other info: Gain hands-on experience in a dynamic school setting with opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing skills for a future in Art Therapy.
- Qualifications: Background in art and a passion for supporting mental health.
The predicted salary is between 27353 - 33431 £ per year.
Location: West Drayton
Start Date: September 2026
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-3:45pm (term time only)
Pay: £108 per day
Trial/observation days available.
Why this role suits Art graduates and aspiring Art Therapists:
- Pupils with SEMH needs may struggle to articulate their feelings verbally. They may be experiencing:
- Anxiety, trauma, or low self-esteem
- Difficulty regulating emotions
- Disengagement from traditional learning
- Communication barriers that lead to frustration
Your background in art, creativity, and self-expression will enable you to:
- Build trust through shared creative activities
- Encourage pupils to express emotions they cannot yet put into words
- Use art as a tool for regulation, reflection, and connection
- Create a safe, non-judgemental space where pupils feel heard
You will gain invaluable experience in how creative therapies can support mental health, improve engagement, and remove barriers to learning.
How this role prepares you for a career in Art Therapy:
- Creative engagement - Learn how to use art to build relationships and support emotional expression
- Understanding SEMH needs - Gain frontline experience supporting pupils with anxiety, trauma, and behavioural challenges
- Raising attainment through wellbeing - See how supporting a pupil's mental health directly impacts their academic progress
- Safeguarding in practice - Work within school safeguarding policies, learning to recognise when a child needs protection
- Therapeutic observation - Develop skills in observing and reflecting on pupil behaviour and emotional states
Your responsibilities:
- Support pupils 1:1 and in small groups, using creative approaches to engage and regulate
- Use art-based activities to promote communication, self-expression, and emotional wellbeing
- Support pupils with SEMH needs to remain engaged in learning and raise attainment
- Work alongside teachers and therapists to follow individual support plans
Learning Support Assistant - Aspiring Art Therapist - West Drayton employer: AMA Admin
Milk Education is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic environment for aspiring Behaviour, Pastoral, or Cover Specialists in Bradford. With a focus on professional development and valuable classroom experience, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students while enjoying consistent hours and a positive school culture. Join us to build your career in education and contribute to a thriving community.
