At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people with emotional needs and help them regain confidence in learning.
- Company: Milk Education, dedicated to safeguarding and promoting youth welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, full training, and ongoing support in a nurturing environment.
- Other info: No school experience needed; your empathy and willingness to learn are what matter most.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience in mental health and education.
- Qualifications: Psychology graduates or those with relevant care or support experience are encouraged to apply.
The predicted salary is between 23000 - 28000 £ per year.
West Drayton | September 2026 Start
Pay: £108 per day
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 3:30pm
Contract: Full-time, Term Time Only
About the Role
This setting supports young people who have struggled in mainstream education due to:
- Anxiety and depression
- Emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA)
- Trauma and negative school experiences
- Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs
Your role will focus on rebuilding confidence, trust, and emotional safety, enabling students to gradually return to learning in a structured and supportive environment. You’ll work in a small, nurturing setting with a strong focus on:
- Emotional regulation
- Relationship building
- Personalised learning approaches
Start Dates
We are recruiting for multiple intakes:
- June / July 2026
- September 2026 (new academic year intake) – This is the only start date currently available.
Early application is recommended to secure your preferred start date.
Why This Role is Ideal
This position is perfect for aspiring:
- Occupational Therapists
- Educational or Clinical Psychologists
- Mental Health Practitioners or Therapists
- Youth Justice or Criminal Justice professionals
- Probation Officers
- Social Workers or Safeguarding professionals
You will gain hands-on experience in:
- Supporting young people with anxiety and depression
- Understanding behaviour linked to trauma and emotional needs
- Working with students at risk of exclusion or disengagement
- Building trust with vulnerable and hard-to-reach learners
- Applying trauma-informed and person-centred approaches
What You’ll Be Doing
- Supporting pupils 1:1 and in small groups
- Helping students manage anxiety, low mood, and school avoidance
- Building consistent, positive relationships with young people
- Supporting emotional regulation and confidence building
- Encouraging engagement in learning and daily routines
- Working closely with staff and external professionals
- Promoting independence, resilience, and life skills
What We’re Looking For
- Are a Psychology graduate or have relevant experience in care, youth work, or support roles
- Have a genuine interest in mental health, education, or occupational therapy
- Are patient, resilient, and emotionally intelligent
- Have strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Understand how anxiety and depression impact behaviour and learning
No school-based experience is required — your attitude, empathy, and willingness to learn are what matter most. Full training and ongoing support will be provided.
Milk Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We are proudly APSCo Compliance+ accredited, reflecting our dedication to the highest standards in safer recruitment. All applicants will be subject to thorough compliance checks in line with DfE, Keeping Children Safe in Education, and APSCo guidelines.
Apply now to be considered for the September 2026 start in West Drayton.
Aspiring Occupational Therapist – Learning Support Assistant West Drayton employer: Milk Education
At Milk Education, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and nurturing work environment for our staff. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive training and development opportunities, ensuring that you can thrive in your role as an Aspiring Occupational Therapist – Learning Support Assistant. Located in West Drayton, you'll be part of a passionate team focused on making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people, all while enjoying a work-life balance with term-time hours.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Aspiring Occupational Therapist – Learning Support Assistant West Drayton
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at Milk Education. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like Milk Education.
We think you need these skills to ace Aspiring Occupational Therapist – Learning Support Assistant West Drayton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for Milk Education:Take some time to research Milk Education and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Milk Education
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for Milk Education's values and approach.
