At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people with mental health needs and help them thrive in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join a leading specialist SEMH provision in Aylesbury dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing training, and clear progression opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic team focused on therapeutic approaches and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the lives of vulnerable learners every day.
- Qualifications: Experience in mental health support or relevant degree preferred.
The predicted salary is between 19000 - 24000 £ per year.
Are you looking for a rewarding role where you can make a genuine difference to the lives of young people? Do you have experience supporting children or young people with mental health needs, trauma, anxiety or challenging behaviour? If you're patient, resilient and passionate about helping vulnerable learners succeed, this could be the perfect opportunity.
Academics is working in partnership with a leading specialist SEMH provision in Aylesbury to recruit a Mental Health Teaching Assistant for a September start. This is a long-term opportunity with the potential to become permanent for the right candidate.
The Role
As a Mental Health Teaching Assistant, you will play a key role in supporting pupils aged 5-16 with a range of social, emotional and mental health needs. Working alongside experienced teachers, therapists and behaviour specialists, you will help students overcome barriers to learning and achieve positive outcomes both inside and outside the classroom.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Supporting pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups.
- Helping students regulate their emotions and develop positive coping strategies.
- Promoting engagement with learning through structured, consistent support.
- Building trusting relationships with pupils who may have experienced trauma or adverse childhood experiences.
- Encouraging positive behaviour using restorative and therapeutic approaches.
- Working collaboratively with the wider school team to deliver personalised support plans.
About You
The school is looking for someone who is compassionate, resilient and committed to improving the lives of young people. You may have experience in:
- SEMH or SEN settings
- Youth work
- Residential care
- Alternative provision or PRUs
- Behaviour mentoring
- Children's support work
- Mental health services
Applications are also welcomed from graduates in Psychology, Criminology, Social Work, Counselling or related subjects who are looking to build experience within education.
What the School Offers
- Temp-to-perm opportunity with a September start.
- Salary between £19,000 and £24,000, depending on experience.
- Ongoing training and professional development.
- A therapeutic, relationship-focused approach to behaviour.
- Clear progression opportunities into SEN, behaviour, pastoral or therapy-based roles.
A welcoming and highly supportive staff team committed to achieving the very best outcomes for every pupil.
If you're looking for a career where every day makes a difference and you want to support young people with social, emotional and mental health needs, we'd love to hear from you.
Mental Health Teaching Assistant Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire Academics £19,000 - 24,000 - Annum [...] employer: Gumtree
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mental Health Teaching Assistant Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire Academics £19,000 - 24,000 - Annum [...]
✨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 Gumtree. 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 Gumtree.
We think you need these skills to ace Mental Health Teaching Assistant Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire Academics £19,000 - 24,000 - Annum [...]
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 Gumtree:Take some time to research Gumtree 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 Gumtree
✨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 Gumtree's values and approach.