Trainee Education Mental Health Practitioner

Overview

In line with the government\’s priority to increase access and availability of mental health and wellbeing support for children and young people, there are new recruit to train positions within the children\’s mental health services; Education Mental Health Practitioner (EMHP) roles. These posts are held within Kent and Medway Mental Health Support Teams (MHST).

EMHPs within these teams provide low intensity interventions based on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and guided self help. Trainee EMHPs are taught these interventions while also learning more about the MHST programme and children and young peoples\’ mental health. EMHP training roles will be based within Ashford, South East Kent, Medway and surrounding localities. All applicants need to be ready to start on 5th January 2026.

Candidates making an application will also need to apply to Kings College London University EMHP training programme and be approved for the course. This must be completed before an official job offer can be made, therefore, we strongly advise for you to complete this alongside the NELFT recruitment process. Please use the link below for course information/entry requirements and KCL portal: CYP IAPT Therapy modalities (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Systemic Family Practice or Parent Training) – King\\\’s College London.

Training details and settings

Throughout the training year and under clinical supervision, you will develop knowledge and practice skills to employ a range of evidence-based interventions for mental health difficulties. This is delivered via direct individual and group support for children, young people and their families, in line with NHS and University expectations. The NHS team uses a blend of face-to-face interventions along with online/digital support (e.g. video and telephone). As an NHS employee you will record your outcomes and contribute to the growing national dataset of what works and helps to support children and young people with their emotional wellbeing and mental health.

During the training year the role will have both academic and practical elements, including face-to-face work in different settings across Kent and Medway (this can include schools and other settings accessed by young people). Candidates will need to travel between school sites/clinical sites as well as to KCL in order to undertake the university course and practical elements of the job role (business travel will be reimbursed).

On successful completion of training, Trainee EMHPs will be equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge and capabilities to work as a qualified EMHP as autonomous and responsible practitioners within their scope of practice, alongside their clinical team (MHSTs).

NELFT welcomes new starters with a comprehensive induction (up to two weeks) which includes mandatory training, systems training and equipment allocation. Induction is held at the Trust head office in Rainham, Essex and includes opportunities to meet the executive team and attend drop-in sessions focusing on engagement, health and wellbeing and key processes.

Responsibilities (during training)

• Delivering evidence-based intervention for children and young people in education settings with mild to moderate mental health problems.
• Helping children and young people within these settings who present with more severe problems to rapidly access more specialist services.
• Supporting and facilitating staff in education settings to identify and where appropriate manage issues related to mental health and wellbeing.
• Working with and within education environments to afford better access to specialist mental health services.

Probation, sponsorship and attendances

This post will be subject to a probationary period. Internal applicants are exempt from the probationary period (unless you are an internal applicant currently part way through a probationary period or currently a bank member of staff). This role is not eligible for sponsorship. You must have the right to work in the UK at the time of application. The trainee EMHPs are funded by NHS England (formally HEE). The university programme begins January 2026 and lasts 12 months.

Funding, qualification and progression

The trainee EMHP role is funded at NHS Agenda for Change bottom of Band 4, gaining credits towards a post-graduate diploma level qualification, with guaranteed employment on successful completion of training and a starting salary at Band 5 with NELFT. The university programme will be delivered through taught days, placements in education, wellbeing and mainstream mental health services, and independent study. Two primary placements are within Kent and Medway settings; travel between sites is required with business travel reimbursed.

Eligibility and other notes

Provisional dates: Interviews begin the week of 13 October 2025. Closing date information is contained in the advert. Driving licence and access to a vehicle to travel across geographical area is desirable. References will be requested after offer. Ensuring right to work in the UK is required. Some emphasised expectations include working within a diverse population and across educational settings.

Benefits and equal opportunities

NELFT offers a range of benefits including flexible working options, equality and diversity initiatives, wellbeing support, and opportunities for personal and professional development. The Trust is a CQC rated Good provider aiming for Outstanding, with sites across North East London, Essex, Kent and Medway. We encourage applicants who live in the areas served to apply to reflect local communities.

Additional notes: The Trust participates in the Armed Forces Covenant and provides adaptable policies and leave for reservists and military spouses. Applicants are advised to review the attached job description and person specification for more information. We welcome applications even if all criteria are not met; development needs can be discussed at interview.