At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils using creative approaches to enhance emotional wellbeing and learning.
- Company: A mainstream secondary school in Haringey focused on holistic child support.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible working, access to CPD courses, and ongoing support.
- Other info: No prior school experience needed; just bring your compassion and creativity!
- Why this job: Use your creativity to make a real difference in students' lives and mental health.
- Qualifications: Art background and a passion for supporting young people's emotional needs.
The predicted salary is between 21600 - 21600 £ per year.
Location: Haringey
Start Date: September 2026
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30am–3:45pm (term time only)
Pay: £108 per day
Trial/observation days available
Use art and creativity to help young people find their voice.
Are you an Art graduate or aspiring Art Therapist who believes in the healing power of creativity and self-expression? This mainstream secondary school in Haringey is committed to supporting the whole child. While the school serves a diverse community, it recognises that Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs can create barriers to learning. For some pupils, words are not enough — they need alternative ways to process, communicate, and heal.
The school is seeking an aspiring Art Therapist to work as a Learning Support Assistant, using creative approaches to support pupils with SEMH needs, raise attainment, and keep children safe. In this role, art becomes a language, and creativity becomes a lifeline.
Why this role suits Art graduates and aspiring Art Therapists:
- Pupils with SEMH needs may struggle to articulate their feelings verbally. They may be experiencing:
- Anxiety, trauma, or low self-esteem
- Difficulty regulating emotions
- Disengagement from traditional learning
- Communication barriers that lead to frustration
Your background in art, creativity, and self-expression will enable you to:
- Build trust through shared creative activities
- Encourage pupils to express emotions they cannot yet put into words
- Use art as a tool for regulation, reflection, and connection
- Create a safe, non-judgemental space where pupils feel heard
You will gain invaluable experience in how creative therapies can support mental health, improve engagement, and remove barriers to learning.
How this role prepares you for a career in Art Therapy:
- Creative engagement: Learn how to use art to build relationships and support emotional expression
- Understanding SEMH needs: Gain frontline experience supporting pupils with anxiety, trauma, and behavioural challenges
- Raising attainment through wellbeing: See how supporting a pupil’s mental health directly impacts their academic progress
- Safeguarding in practice: Work within school safeguarding policies, learning to recognise when a child needs protection
- Therapeutic observation: Develop skills in observing and reflecting on pupil behaviour and emotional states
Your responsibilities:
- Support pupils 1:1 and in small groups, using creative approaches to engage and regulate
- Use art-based activities to promote communication, self-expression, and emotional wellbeing
- Support pupils with SEMH needs to remain engaged in learning and raise attainment
- Work alongside teachers and therapists to follow individual support plans
- Contribute to a calm, safe, and inclusive environment where every child can thrive
- Support safeguarding by being a trusted, consistent adult in school
Sometimes, a drawing, a colour, or a sculpture speaks louder than words — and that can change everything.
Who we are looking for:
- No prior school experience is required. Curiosity, compassion, and a belief in the power of creativity are key.
- We’d love to hear from you if you:
- Have an Art, Fine Art, or Creative Arts background
- Are interested in a career in Art Therapy or Creative Arts Therapy
- Believe in the therapeutic power of creativity and self-expression
- Can build trust with young people who may find words difficult
- Remain patient, calm, and imaginative when challenges arise
- Are committed to keeping children safe and supporting their wellbeing
What’s in it for you:
- Excellent daily pay (£108 per day)
- Fast-track registration
- Flexible working options
- Access to 1000+ CPD courses via Milk Academy
- Free wellbeing resources
- Exclusive perks and discount portal
- Ongoing support from a dedicated consultant
- Work with the UK’s only eco-friendly education agency
If you are compassionate, creative, and excited to use art as a tool for healing and connection, we would love to speak with you.
Creative Learning Support Assistant | Aspiring Art Therapist employer: Milk Education
Join a vibrant and supportive school community in Haringey, where creativity and compassion are at the heart of our mission to empower young people. As a Learning Support Assistant – Aspiring Art Therapist, you will benefit from excellent daily pay, flexible working options, and access to over 1000 CPD courses, all while making a meaningful impact on students' lives. Our commitment to your professional growth and wellbeing, combined with a nurturing environment, makes this an exceptional place to develop your career in art therapy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Creative Learning Support Assistant | Aspiring Art Therapist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the art and education fields. Attend local events or workshops where you can meet people who might know about job openings. Remember, sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your creativity! When you get the chance for an interview or trial day, bring along a portfolio of your work. This isn’t just about your art skills; it’s about demonstrating how you can use creativity to connect with students and support their emotional needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to talk about SEMH needs! Brush up on your understanding of social, emotional, and mental health challenges that students face. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show potential employers that you’re ready to make a real difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources and support to help you land that perfect role. Plus, applying directly means you’ll be first in line for any opportunities that pop up. Don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace Creative Learning Support Assistant | Aspiring Art Therapist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Art:Let your love for art shine through in your application! Share your experiences and how creativity has impacted your life and the lives of others. We want to see your enthusiasm for using art as a tool for healing.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Even if you haven't worked in a school before, think about any relevant experiences you've had. Whether it's volunteering, tutoring, or even personal projects, we want to know how you've engaged with young people or used art in meaningful ways.
Be Authentic and Personal:Don't be afraid to be yourself! Use your application to tell your story and express why you’re drawn to this role. We appreciate authenticity and want to understand what makes you tick as a creative individual.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s super easy, and we’ll be able to process your application quickly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Milk Education
✨Show Your Passion for Art and Therapy
Make sure to express your genuine enthusiasm for art and its therapeutic benefits during the interview. Share personal experiences or projects that highlight how creativity has impacted your life or the lives of others.
✨Understand SEMH Needs
Familiarise yourself with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs before the interview. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach supporting pupils facing these challenges, using art as a medium for expression and healing.
✨Demonstrate Your Creative Approach
Think of specific art-based activities you could use to engage students. During the interview, suggest creative strategies that could help pupils communicate their feelings and regulate their emotions, showcasing your innovative thinking.
✨Build Rapport and Show Empathy
Practice building rapport with the interviewers by being warm and approachable. Use active listening skills and show empathy when discussing the challenges faced by pupils with SEMH needs, as this will reflect your ability to connect with young people.
