At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with SEMH needs and autism in mainstream and SEND schools.
- Company: Milk Education, a leading eco-friendly education supply agency.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, excellent pay, and access to 1000+ CPD courses.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and make a real difference in students' lives.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience that boosts your future Educational Psychology applications.
- Qualifications: Psychology graduates or related fields with a passion for supporting young people.
The predicted salary is between 23000 - 27000 £ per year.
Locations: Croydon, Thornton Heath, Purley and Coulsdon
Role Type: SEND Teaching Assistant – Temporary / Agency (Full-time & Part-time available). Start Date: Immediate start/ September 2026 start
Milk Education is working with mainstream and SEND schools to recruit a dedicated Aspiring Educational Psychologist who is keen to build a future career in Psychology. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who wants hands‑on experience supporting students with SEMH needs, autism, and those who are struggling to engage with school.
The Role
- Providing 1:1 and small‑group support — academic, emotional and behavioural
- Supporting pupils with SEMH needs, helping them regulate emotions and develop positive coping strategies
- Working with autistic students using structure, routines and visual communication tools
- Supporting school refusers through reintegration plans and building trusting relationships
- Helping deliver targeted interventions and tracking progress
- Adapting classroom tasks and resources to make learning accessible for all
- Contributing to a calm, nurturing environment that puts wellbeing first
Why This Role Is Perfect for Aspiring Educational Psychologists
- Gain practical experience supporting young people with a range of cognitive, emotional and social needs
- Develop observation, assessment and behaviour‑analysis skills
- Work alongside SENCOs, pastoral teams and external professionals
- Learn how different learning profiles present in real school settings
- Build an understanding of effective interventions and long‑term support strategies
- Strengthen future Educational Psychology applications with meaningful, hands‑on experience
What We’re Looking For as an aspiring psychologist
- Patient, empathetic and reflective individuals
- A genuine interest in understanding behaviour, learning and child development
- Someone committed to making a positive impact on young people’s wellbeing
- Graduates in Psychology or related fields are encouraged to apply
If you’re passionate about supporting vulnerable young people and want experience that directly supports your journey into Educational Psychology as a Learning Support Assistant, we’d love to hear from you.
Benefits to YOU working with Milk Education
- Excellent daily pay
- Fast‑track registration
- Flexible working options
- 5-star agency with 3000+ reviews
- Exclusive school & trust partnerships
- Free Perks Portal access
- 1000+ discounted CPD courses through Milk Academy
- Free PSHE lesson plans & wellbeing resources
- Educator Wellbeing eBook + hub access
- School Preparation Pack
- 24/7 consultant support
- Access to lived‑experience speakers via our Unbottled division
- Work with the UK’s only eco‑friendly education supply agency
Ready to Apply
If you’re motivated to make a difference and want to kickstart your career in education, we’d love to hear from you. Send us your CV and a short cover letter outlining your interest and experience. This is more than just a job — it’s a chance to shape futures, build your career, and be part of something meaningful across Surrey.
Click ‘Apply Now’ or get in touch with me for more information about this great opportunity: sam.woodruff@milk-education.co.uk 01483 323100
Psychology Graduate – Working in Mainstream and SEND schools – Supply in Croydon employer: Milk Education
Milk Education is an exceptional employer for aspiring Educational Psychologists, offering invaluable hands-on experience in mainstream and SEND schools across Croydon, Thornton Heath, Purley, and Coulsdon. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, flexible working options, and access to over 1000 discounted CPD courses, we foster a supportive work culture that prioritises personal and professional growth. Join us to make a meaningful impact on young people's lives while kickstarting your career in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Psychology Graduate – Working in Mainstream and SEND schools – Supply in Croydon
✨Get Involved with Psychology Networks
Join local psychology groups or online forums to connect with professionals and get the inside scoop on temporary opportunities. Engaging in these communities can lead to recommendations that might not be advertised anywhere else!
✨Showcase Your Skills with Voluntary Work
Consider taking on voluntary roles in mental health charities or community programmes. This not only builds your experience but also helps you make valuable connections that could lead to temporary positions.
✨Keep Your Applications Customised and Fresh
Given the temporary nature of the roles, be super quick with your applications. Tailor your cover letter to highlight your adaptability and readiness for immediate start dates, and don't hesitate to apply through our website for the best chances!
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs or workshops specifically aimed at psychology students and graduates. These events are perfect for networking and discovering temporary roles directly with employers—plus you can often leave a lasting impression in-person!
We think you need these skills to ace Psychology Graduate – Working in Mainstream and SEND schools – Supply in Croydon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Academic Background:In the psychology field, highlighting your academic achievements is crucial. Make sure your CV emphasises your relevant coursework, grades, and any special projects or research you've undertaken in psychology. We want to see how your studies have prepared you for the role at Milk Education.
Tailor Your Personal Statement:Your personal statement is your chance to shine. Focus on your passion for psychology and how this temporary role fits into your career goals. Discuss any relevant experiences or skills that make you a great fit for Psychology Graduate – Working in Mainstream and SEND schools – Supply at Milk Education and tie it back to your motivation for applying.
Mention Any Relevant Experience:Whether it’s internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs, relevant experience can set you apart. Highlight any practical applications of psychology you've been involved with, such as counselling, research assistance, or community outreach. It's all about demonstrating your hands-on understanding of the field!
Stay Flexible and Open-Minded:Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your adaptability in your cover letter. Let Milk Education know that you're ready to jump in and learn, and that you can handle quick changes in tasks. We want to see how you'll thrive in a dynamic environment while contributing to the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Milk Education
✨Showcase Your Empathy Skills
In psychology, your ability to connect with others is crucial. Be ready to discuss how you've demonstrated empathy and understanding in past roles or academic projects. Prepare a couple of real-life examples from your studies or any volunteer work that showcase your strength in this area.
✨Understand the Role’s Context
A temporary position in psychology may involve specific populations or clinical settings. Familiarise yourself with any special considerations or methodologies that apply to the context of the job at Milk Education. This could include particular therapeutic approaches or assessment tools - knowing these can set you apart.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that require you to think on your feet and apply psychological principles in real-world scenarios. Practise how you would approach a hypothetical situation, perhaps dealing with a distressed client or assessing their needs. This will demonstrate your problem-solving abilities effectively.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility and Adaptability
Temporary roles often require us to adapt quickly to new environments and challenges. Be sure to emphasise your ability to step into various roles or tasks as needed. Share examples that show how you've thrived in changing situations or learned new skills rapidly.