At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to make a real difference in children's mental health through practical clinical interventions.
- Company: Early Years Alliance, dedicated to safeguarding and promoting children's welfare.
- Benefits: 26 days annual leave, birthday leave, enhanced sickness pay, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Fixed term until December 2027 with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative programme that impacts the lives of children and families.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate diploma level qualifications and relevant professional experience required.
The predicted salary is between 37035 - 45265 £ per year.
Early Years Alliance has an exciting opportunity for a CYP-PT Therapies Trainee (Systemic Family Practice Modality) to join our team as part of the NHS England (NHSE) funded Children and Young People (CYP) Psychological Training Programme (formerly CYP-IAPT/Recruit to Train). This is a unique opportunity to apply your learning from weekly teaching into practical clinical interventions working in the service making a direct impact in the lives of children, young people and their families. The post holder will hold an appropriate training case load and complete the necessary assignments to meet the course requirements.
You will be working as part of a CYP-MH Parenting Team based in Lewisham, South London, working with children and young people with Conduct Disorder for part of each week, but successful candidates will be expected to travel to Denmark Hill Campus of King’s College London for weekly teaching during the training year.
What are we looking for?
We are seeking highly motivated candidates who are enthusiastic about making a difference to children’s mental health through evidence‑based interventions based on NICE Guidelines recommended treatment. You will have qualifications that demonstrate a capacity to complete academic work at postgraduate diploma level, as well as a registerable professional qualification (e.g. clinical or educational psychology, social work, counselling, mental health nursing, occupational therapy etc). Minimum second‑class Bachelor’s Degree from a UK University or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard in a relevant subject (e.g. psychology, social work etc). Applications MAY be considered from those who do not have a registerable professional training if they have at least 2 years’ experience in a CAMHS or equivalent mental health service setting and can demonstrate equivalence through the RPL (recognition of prior learning) process.
You will be committed to the CYP Psychological Training Programme core principles: Accessibility, accountability, participation, awareness and evidence‑based practice, and in providing an inclusive and effective service for children and young people, along with a dedication to equity, diversity and inclusion.
Please review the job description, person specification, and additional documents linked below for more information on the role. For more information about the role or to have a confidential discussion, please reach out to: Dawn Ashley, CYP‑MH Officer at dawn.ashley@eyalliance.org.uk
Benefits:
- 26 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays, pro rata for part time employees
- Additional annual leave for long service
- Enhanced sickness pay
- Employer and employee contribution pension scheme
- Birthday leave so you can have a day off for your birthday dedicated to you and your well being
- Regular access to internal and external learning and development opportunities
- A Recruitment Referral Payment Scheme, giving you an introductory payment of up to £300 if someone you have referred to the Alliance takes up a role in the charity.
- Access to our Employee Assistant Programme (EAP), which includes 24/7 helpline access, dedicated managers helpline, confidential counselling sessions delivered by accredited specialists, legal, debt and life management advice, discounts, and wellbeing content plus resources.
- A dedicated mental health First Aider to support your mental well being
This post is fixed term until December 2027. Hours per week: 35 Weeks per year: 52
Advert Closing date: 12 noon on 4th October 2026
Virtual interview date: 26th and 27th October 2026
Interview Location: In person, Lewisham. Exact venue to be determined
This post is not exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974) and does require a Disclosure and Barring Service check. Applicants must be prepared to disclose any convictions they may have and any orders which have been made against them. The level of this check is enhanced.
About The Service:
The Alliance is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. It is a requirement of all staff that they share this commitment and follow the prescribed policy and procedures to continuously promote a culture of safeguarding across the whole organisation. The charity is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and equal opportunities in employment.
Trainee Systemic Family Therapist employer: Early Years Alliance
The Early Years Alliance is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises professional development and employee growth. With a commitment to safeguarding and equality, this hybrid role provides flexibility and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in early years education, ensuring high-quality training for learners and apprentices alike.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Systemic Family Therapist
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Join local mental health events, workshops, or awareness campaigns. You’ll not only learn more about the field, but these gatherings are great places to meet professionals already working in therapy or counselling—who knows, they might even have tips for landing a trainee position!
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re in uni, don’t forget about career services—they're goldmines for finding trainee placements in therapy and counselling. They might host job fairs or have connections with local organisations that are looking for trainees. Make the most of it!
✨Show Off Your Passion Online
Create a blog or use social media to share your thoughts on therapy techniques, mental health topics, or your learning journey. This makes you more visible to potential employers like Early Years Alliance, showcasing your enthusiasm for the field.
✨Volunteer for Experience
Look for volunteer opportunities at local mental health charities or organisations. Hands-on experience is invaluable and can sometimes lead directly to trainee roles. Plus, it adds weight to your application when you go for positions like Trainee Systemic Family Therapist with Early Years Alliance!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Systemic Family Therapist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Empathy Skills:In therapy and counselling, empathy is key. When crafting your CV and cover letter, show how you've developed this skill through your experiences, whether that’s from volunteer work, personal experiences, or relevant coursework. It’s all about demonstrating that you have the ability to connect with and understand others.
Showcase Relevant Academic Credentials:For a trainee role in therapy and counselling, your educational background matters a lot. Make sure to list your degrees, relevant coursework, and any certifications you have (like a certificate in counselling skills). If you’ve done any projects or placements, mention those too as they show you’re serious about your career path.
Express Your Passion for Learning:As a trainee, showing that you’re keen to learn and grow is crucial. Your cover letter should reflect your motivation for the role at Early Years Alliance and your eagerness to develop your skills further. Talk about how you’re dedicated to evolving in the field and contributing to positive outcomes with clients.
Tailor Your Application to Early Years Alliance:Each place has its vibes and focus areas, so take some time to understand what makes Early Years Alliance unique. In your application, highlight why you resonate with their approach to therapy. This not only personalises your application but also shows that you’ve done your homework – something we can totally appreciate!
How to prepare for a job interview at Early Years Alliance
✨Showcase Your Empathy and Listening Skills
In the therapy and counselling world, empathy is key. During your interview for the trainee position at Early Years Alliance, be ready to share examples that demonstrate how you've effectively listened and responded to others' needs. This could be from your studies or any relevant experiences!
✨Prepare for Role-Play Scenarios
Often, interviews for counselling roles include role-play exercises to assess your practical skills. Be ready to engage in a mock counselling session during the interview. Practising a few common scenarios beforehand will help you feel more comfortable and confident!
✨Passion for Learning is Key
As a trainee, they’re likely looking for someone enthusiastic about developing their skills. Be sure to discuss your motivations for entering the therapy field and how you're keen on learning new techniques, therapies, and therapies. This will show that you're committed to your own growth and client care.
✨Discuss Your Theoretical Knowledge
Even as a trainee, they’ll expect a solid foundation in counselling theories. Brush up on key theories and be prepared to discuss how you might apply them practically. This shows you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the framework guiding your future practice at Early Years Alliance.
