At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with social, emotional, and mental health needs to improve their life chances.
- Company: Merton Council, dedicated to promoting inclusion and innovation in education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, part-time hours, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to reflective practice and 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.
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.
Interviews will be held on 11th November 2026.
Specialist SEMH Support Worker employer: Merton Council
Merton Council is an outstanding employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where you can make a tangible impact on local governance and community regeneration. With a strong commitment to employee development, we provide ample opportunities for growth and professional advancement, alongside a collaborative culture that values innovation and strategic thinking. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to shaping the future of our community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist SEMH Support Worker
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Dive headfirst into community events and social work fairs in your area. These are great opportunities to connect with potential employers like Merton Council, grab some insider info, and showcase your passion for social work. Plus, meeting people face-to-face can really make you stand out!
✨Join Social Work Networks
Tap into social work networks and online communities, like local charities and organisations. Engaging in discussions or volunteering can help you build a strong reputation and could lead to part-time roles just like the one at Merton Council. The connections you make could be the key to landing your next opportunity!
✨Make Your Passion Shine
When approaching part-time roles, be sure to highlight your passion for social issues in conversations and informal chats. Bring your experiences to life through storytelling – this can resonate well with organisations looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference!
✨Keep an Eye on Local Job Boards
Part-time roles in social work might not always be advertised in the usual places. Keep checking local job boards or community centres for openings, and don't hesitate to apply directly through Merton Council's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist SEMH Support Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let your passion for social work shine through. Talk about why you're drawn to this field and how you've been involved in community service or support roles. We want to see your commitment and the heart you bring to the table!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to spotlight any hands-on experience you have! Whether it's internships, volunteering, or relevant coursework, detail how your past experiences relate to the role at Merton Council. We love seeing candidates who have practical skills and a real understanding of social issues.
Certificates and Training Matter:If you've got any relevant certifications or training specific to social work (like safeguarding training or counselling qualifications), don’t forget to include these in your CV! These details can set you apart and show us you’re serious about your professional development.
Be Flexible with Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, explain your availability clearly in your application. Let us know when you can start and how many hours you’re looking to work. Being upfront about your schedule will help us see how you fit into the team at Merton Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Merton Council
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
In social work, it's all about your commitment to making a difference. Be ready to share specific experiences that highlight your passion for helping others, whether that's through volunteering, placements, or personal stories. We want to see that genuine drive during your chat with Merton Council.
✨Know Your Social Work Theories
You might be quizzed on social work theories or models that inform your practice, like the person-in-environment approach. Brush up on these concepts and be prepared to discuss how you'd apply them in a practical setting. This could be a game changer in your interview for a Specialist SEMH Support Worker at Merton Council.
✨Flexibility and Availability are Key
As you're going for a part-time role, highlight your flexibility and how it would fit with the organisation's needs. Have examples ready that demonstrate your availability for various shifts or urgent situations—that's just gold for a social work role.
✨Prepare for a Situation-Based Discussion
Expect scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate how you'd handle specific situations with clients or stakeholders. Think of a couple of real-life scenarios you've encountered and articulate your thought process. This will show Merton Council that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Specialist SEMH Support Worker role.
