At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with mental health issues to thrive in their studies.
- Company: Join a dynamic higher education institution focused on student wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy a generous pension, flexible working, and subsidised fitness facilities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your career in mental health.
- Qualifications: Registered mental health professional with relevant experience.
- Other info: Full training provided; we value diversity and welcome all applicants.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This role is full time, term time only (34 weeks) and salary will be pro‑rated accordingly. Job share and part‑time applicants welcome.
Are you an experienced registered mental health professional looking for interesting and rewarding work in the higher education sector? Student Services are recruiting a Principal Specialist Mentor (Mental Health) to provide individualised support to students with mental health problems. Specialist mentors provide longer‑term interventions, either in person or online, with the overall aim of helping students to successfully complete their degree whilst maintaining their wellbeing.
We are seeking candidates with professional registration (e.g. HCPC, BACP, NMC, etc.) and experience working in mental health (e.g. counselling/psychotherapy, occupational therapy, social work or mental health nursing). No prior higher education experience is required; we will provide full induction and training.
Responsibilities include:
- Work as part of Student Wellbeing, a multidisciplinary team supporting student mental health.
- Assess student needs, develop strategies to facilitate independent learning and successful participation in higher education.
- Assess and mitigate risk, make referrals to statutory services where appropriate.
- Provide guidance and training to colleagues in Student Services and across the university.
The role is fully campus‑based and requires work at both City Centre and Headingley campuses.
Closing date: Monday 19th January (23.59). Interview date: Wednesday 4th February 2026 (subject to change).
Benefits include a generous pension scheme, excellent holiday entitlements, flexible working, reduced study fees, subsidised fitness facilities and more. This post is subject to a criminal records check (Enhanced level). We welcome applications from all individuals and particularly from black and minority ethnic candidates, as members of these groups are currently under‑represented at this level of post. All appointments will be based on merit. Apply online.
Principal Specialist Mentor (Mental Health) - Term time only (34 weeks) in Leeds employer: Leeds Beckett University
Contact Detail:
Leeds Beckett University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Specialist Mentor (Mental Health) - Term time only (34 weeks) in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the mental health field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the university's approach to student wellbeing and think about how your experience aligns with their values. Practise answering common interview questions, especially around mental health support.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! During interviews, highlight your professional registration and any relevant experience you have in mental health. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used to support students in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to 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 student lives.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Specialist Mentor (Mental Health) - Term time only (34 weeks) in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in mental health. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Principal Specialist Mentor, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant qualifications and experiences!
Showcase Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for supporting students shine through! We’re looking for candidates who are genuinely interested in helping others succeed, so share any personal stories or motivations that drive you in this field.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your writing is easy to read and free from jargon. This will help us understand your qualifications without getting lost in the details.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your materials directly and can process them efficiently. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Leeds Beckett University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your mental health knowledge and the specific challenges students face in higher education. Familiarise yourself with relevant theories and practices, as well as any recent developments in the field. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're genuinely interested in supporting students.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous roles and how they relate to the responsibilities of a Principal Specialist Mentor. Think about specific examples where you've successfully supported individuals with mental health issues, and be ready to explain your approach and the outcomes. This will help the interviewers see how your background aligns with their needs.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with questions that show your interest in the role and the organisation. Ask about the support systems in place for students, the multidisciplinary team dynamics, or how success is measured in this position. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is right for you.
✨Be Yourself
While it's important to be professional, don't forget to let your personality shine through. The role involves building relationships with students, so showing your authentic self can help the interviewers see how you'd fit into the team. Be honest about your motivations for applying and what you hope to achieve in the role.