At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children and young people with mental health challenges through engaging interventions.
- Company: Join OTR, a vibrant charity dedicated to youth mental health.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible leave, healthcare support, and continuous training opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with ongoing professional development and a commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while working in a supportive community.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Education Mental Health Practitioner.
The predicted salary is between 37035 - 45265 £ per year.
Application Deadline: 31/08/2026
Hours: 37.5 per week
Salary: OTR Band B++ | Starting salary £29,029 (including £2,147 temporary market supplement)
Contract Type: Permanent
We are recruiting for Education Mental Health Practitioners to join our Mental Health Support Teams across Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire. Vacancies are available in each of these locations.
Please note we are looking for qualified Education Mental Health Practitioners, therefore, we can only accept candidates that have completed an Education Mental Health Practitioner course.
The post-holders will be part of the Mental Health Support Team (MHST). The role is dynamic and varied with practitioners carrying a supervised clinical caseload to deliver high-quality, outcome-informed, evidence-based interventions for children and young people experiencing mild to moderate anxiety, low mood and behavioural difficulties.
Successful candidates will work closely with professionals, children and young people, families and the wider school community to deliver engaging Whole School Approach activities. They will use their training, skills and experience to influence the whole school culture in relation to mental health and wellbeing.
Ongoing CPD and service experience will equip the post holders with the necessary knowledge, attitude and capabilities to ensure that children and young people can access the right support at the right time.
We are committed to overcoming barriers to access for children, young people, and families seeking support, and upholding anti-oppressive practice in our work and teams.
We are part of a national initiative to place Education Mental Health Practitioners (EMHPs) in schools as outlined in the national Green Paper. OTR along with Avon Wiltshire Partnership Trust (AWP) are working in partnership to develop and implement these roles across the local area.
To find out more about the role please download the job pack below. If you would like an informal chat about the role, please email awp.mhstenquiries@nhs.net
This piece of recruitment is open on a rolling basis and therefore we retain the right to close this advertisement at any time.
OTR is a mental health social movement by and for young people. The charity is at an exciting stage of its 59-year history and is proud to be reaching more young people than ever before (over 20,000) across Bristol, South Gloucestershire, and North Somerset with creative and diverse mental health and wellbeing info and support.
Our approach to mental health is grounded in a set of beliefs and assumptions that underpins all of our work. We believe in celebrating diversity, empowering and mobilising young people to make change, and that catering to the unique strengths, interests and circumstances surrounding young people is key. Our approach centres on collaboration and partnership, building relationships between individuals, peers and communities.
Each day is as engaging and fulfilling as the last, and with a network of supportive, community minded people, we hope you’ll feel welcome here. As a thank you, we like to compensate our employees for the important work they do with a range of benefits including a flexible leave policy (32 days minimum, pro rata), healthcare cost assistance with HealthShield, flexible and hybrid working arrangements, enhanced sick pay, parental leave, continual training and development, free wellbeing initiatives, and more.
A Willingness to Work with Difference
At OTR, whatever your role or professional background, you will be expected to work in a way that is anti-oppressive and inclusive. A key focus for OTR is to develop an organisation that is inclusive for all but we do not claim to be experts in this. We are committed to continuous learning and improvement in these areas and invite you to join us on this journey.
OTR recognises the benefits to individual practice and organisational credibility of having a diverse community of staff and volunteers and to this end is continually working towards building and maintaining an environment which values and pursues diversity accordingly.
We recognise that tackling systemic inequality, prejudice, racism and oppressive practice requires each of us to actively engage, self-examine and make changes where necessary, in order to improve access and equitable experience for all in society and all of those who come through our doors at OTR.
Education Mental Health Practitioner (EMHP) employer: Off The Record (Bristol)
OTR is an exceptional employer for Education Mental Health Practitioners, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment across Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire. With a strong commitment to employee growth through ongoing training, flexible working arrangements, and a generous leave policy, OTR fosters a culture of inclusivity and collaboration, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people. Join us in our mission to transform mental health support for children and young people while enjoying a fulfilling career with a community-focused organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Education Mental Health Practitioner (EMHP)
✨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 Off The Record (Bristol). 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 Off The Record (Bristol).
We think you need these skills to ace Education Mental Health Practitioner (EMHP)
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 Off The Record (Bristol):Take some time to research Off The Record (Bristol) 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 Off The Record (Bristol)
✨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 Off The Record (Bristol)'s values and approach.
