At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils using creative art approaches to enhance emotional wellbeing and learning.
- Company: A supportive secondary school in Haringey focused on holistic education.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible hours, access to CPD courses, and ongoing support.
- Other info: No prior 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 helping young people express themselves.
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 in London employer: Milk Education
This mainstream secondary school in Haringey is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for both staff and students. With a strong emphasis on creativity and mental health, the school offers unique opportunities for professional growth through hands-on experience in art therapy, alongside access to extensive CPD courses and ongoing support. Employees benefit from a flexible working schedule, competitive pay, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people facing SEMH challenges.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Creative Learning Support Assistant | Aspiring Art Therapist in London
✨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 is your time to shine and demonstrate how your artistic skills can make a difference in supporting pupils with SEMH needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t wait for job postings to come to you. Check our website regularly and apply directly through us. We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals like you who want to make a real impact in education.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how your background in art can help you connect with students. Be ready to share examples of how you’ve used creativity to overcome challenges or support others. This will show your potential employers that you’re the right fit for the role!
We think you need these skills to ace Creative Learning Support Assistant | Aspiring Art Therapist in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Art:Let us see your love for art and creativity shine through in your application. Share any experiences or projects that highlight how you've used art to connect with others or express emotions.
Highlight Your Understanding of SEMH Needs:Make sure to mention any knowledge or experience you have regarding Social, Emotional, and Mental Health needs. We want to know how you can support pupils who might struggle to articulate their feelings.
Be Authentic and Personal:Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your writing. We’re looking for someone who is compassionate and imaginative, so share your unique perspective on how art can be a healing tool.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
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 ready to discuss how you would approach supporting pupils facing these challenges, using art as a medium for expression and healing.
✨Prepare Creative Activity Ideas
Think of a few creative activities you could use to engage students with SEMH needs. Presenting these ideas during the interview will demonstrate your proactive approach and understanding of the role's requirements.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's approach to supporting pupils with SEMH needs. This shows your interest in their methods and helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your values and aspirations in art therapy.
