At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with social, emotional, and mental health needs to improve their life chances.
- Company: Join a dynamic SEMH team dedicated to inclusion and innovation in schools.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time only, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a forward-thinking team committed to combating discrimination.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people from diverse backgrounds.
- Qualifications: Experience working with children with complex needs and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 38256 - 39276 £ per year.
Grade/Salary: ME9 - £38,256 to £39,276 pro rata
Merton SEND Support and Inclusion Service - Primary SEMH Team - Term Time Only
Do you have a successful track record of working with children or young people with complex social, emotional and mental health needs to improve outcomes and life chances? Do you enjoy working with children from diverse backgrounds? Do you have experience of working with difficult to engage children? Have you had particular successes working with boys? Do you work well as part of a team?
We are seeking a hardworking and enthusiastic person to join our well established and highly regarded SEMH Team. In this post you will be working with pupils and staff to promote inclusion of pupils with a wide range of needs, many of whom have experienced developmental trauma and some of whom are neuro-diverse. You will need to build effective rapport and relationships with pupils by offering practical support and by providing support and guidance to the adults in schools through modelling of good practice.
You will need to be flexible in your approach and have the confidence to use your initiative in dealing with challenging situations that also reflect the core values of care, welfare, safety and security.
You will have had recent experience in a professional and or voluntary capacity of working with children with social emotional and mental health needs, this could be in schools, youth settings including early help; transition work; targeted youth support; targeted children’s support or supporting young people and their families in other services.
You must have good communication skills to be able to work with professionals and parents in this role to reduce anxiety and to work in partnership.
You will be joining a dynamic and forward-thinking team, that aims to promote inclusion and innovation in our schools. We are committed to our own professional development and reflective practice to achieve inclusion and to combat discrimination in all its forms.
If all this sounds like you we would love to hear from you! If you have any questions about the post please contact Rachel Cooper on 07946 890234. Interviews will be held on 17th June 2026.
Specialist SEMH Support Worker employer: Merton Council
Join our dedicated SEMH Team in Merton, where we prioritise the well-being and development of children with complex needs. We offer a supportive work culture that values professional growth, providing opportunities for training and collaboration with passionate colleagues. With a focus on inclusion and innovation, you will make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people while enjoying a fulfilling career in a vibrant community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist SEMH Support Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEMH. They might know about opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in SEMH support. Show us you’re passionate about improving outcomes for children with complex needs. Bring examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves working closely with parents and professionals, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly is key. Consider mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence.
✨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 us you’re genuinely interested in joining our dynamic team.
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist SEMH Support Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children and young people shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in supporting those with complex needs and how you can make a difference in their lives.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in your application. Whether it's working in schools or youth settings, we want to know how your background aligns with the role of a Specialist SEMH Support Worker. Be specific about your successes!
Communicate Clearly:Good communication is key in this role, so ensure your application is clear and concise. Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. This will show us that you can communicate effectively with both pupils and professionals.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Merton Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the specific needs of children with social, emotional, and mental health challenges. Brush up on relevant theories and practices that can help improve their outcomes. This will show your passion and commitment to the role.
✨Share Your Success Stories
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully engaged with difficult-to-reach children. Highlight any particular successes you've had, especially with boys, as this aligns with the job requirements.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since teamwork is crucial in this role, be ready to talk about how you’ve collaborated with others in previous positions. Share instances where you’ve modelled good practice or supported colleagues, showcasing your ability to work well within a team.
✨Be Flexible and Proactive
The role requires a flexible approach and the confidence to use your initiative. Think of examples where you've adapted your strategies in challenging situations. This will demonstrate your readiness to tackle the unpredictable nature of working with SEMH pupils.
