At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people using art to express emotions and enhance learning.
- Company: Mainstream secondary school in Maidenhead focused on holistic child support.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible hours, access to CPD courses, and wellbeing resources.
- Other info: No prior experience needed; just bring your curiosity and compassion!
- Why this job: Make a real difference by helping students communicate through creativity.
- Qualifications: Art background and passion for supporting mental health through creativity.
The predicted salary is between 22500 - 27500 £ per year.
Location: Maidenhead
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 Maidenhead 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
Through this position, you will develop the exact skills needed for Art Therapy training and practice:
- 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
Learning Support Assistant – Aspiring Art Therapist – Maidenhead employer: Milk Education
Milk Education is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of Liverpool. With significant progression pathways, generous incentives, and a supportive environment, we empower our team to thrive in their careers while enjoying a healthy work-life balance with 23 days off annually plus bank holidays.
