At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide 1:1 and small-group mental health support to students in a secondary school.
- Company: A supportive secondary school in Redbridge with a focus on student wellbeing.
- Benefits: £444 per week, term-time only, with potential for extended contracts or teacher training.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: 2:1 or First-Class degree and child-centred experience required.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to mental health and education.
The predicted salary is between 1800 - 2000 £ per month.
Are you a Mental Health Support Assistant looking to gain meaningful experience in a secondary school setting? This role in Redbridge is an excellent opportunity to support young people with their wellbeing while developing long-term school-based experience from January 2026.
This Redbridge secondary school is rated Good with elements of Outstanding practice and is recognised for its calm environment and strong pastoral systems. The school has a clear, well-structured curriculum supported by consistent behaviour expectations across Key Stages 3 and 4. There is a strong focus on inclusion, with well-established SEN and pastoral provision supporting pupils with ASD, ADHD and SEMH needs. Staff work closely as a team, and student wellbeing is central to the school's values and daily practice.
What the School Offers:- A structured induction and ongoing CPD focused on mental health and pupil wellbeing
- Clear and supportive behaviour systems across the secondary phase
- Strong mentoring and guidance for support staff
- A collaborative pastoral and SEN team culture
- Opportunities for extended contracts or progression into teacher training
- Providing 1:1 and small-group mental health support
- Supporting pupils with SEMH needs within mainstream classrooms and pastoral spaces
- Assisting students with emotional regulation, engagement and coping strategies
- Working closely with teachers, SEN staff and pastoral leads to support wellbeing
- Helping to maintain a calm, safe and inclusive learning environment
The school is seeking a Mental Health Support Assistant with a 2:1 or First-Class degree from a top 30 UK university and some form of child-centred experience. The ideal candidate will be proactive, compassionate and resilient, with strong communication skills and a genuine interest in adolescent mental health and education. Please note, applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK, as we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position.
Salary and Contract Info:- £444 per week, pro rata to term time only
- Full-time, long-term contract (January-July)
- Term-time only
- Potential for extended contracts or future teacher training
This role offers a rewarding opportunity to gain valuable secondary school experience in a supportive and forward-thinking environment, ideal for those considering careers in teaching, psychology or pastoral work.
Mental Health Support Assistant in Ilford employer: Ribbons and Reeves Limited
Contact Detail:
Ribbons and Reeves Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Mental Health Support Assistant in Ilford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work with mental health. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to mental health support. Think about scenarios you might face in the role and how you'd handle them. We want you to feel confident and ready to showcase your skills!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Mental Health Support Assistant role. We’ve got loads of resources to help you shine, so make sure you take advantage of everything we offer!
We think you need these skills to ace Mental Health Support Assistant in Ilford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for mental health and supporting young people shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in students' lives!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have, especially if it involves working with children or in educational settings. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role of a Mental Health Support Assistant.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key skills and experiences are easy to spot!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get you on the path to joining our fantastic team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ribbons and Reeves Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Mental Health Support Assistant inside out. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with SEMH, ASD, and ADHD. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in supporting young people's wellbeing.
✨Show Your Compassion
During the interview, share examples of how you've demonstrated compassion and resilience in previous roles or experiences. Whether it's through volunteering, tutoring, or any child-centred work, highlight your ability to connect with young people and support their emotional needs.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the school's approach to mental health and inclusion. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the school’s values align with yours. Questions about their behaviour systems or support for staff can be particularly effective.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity goes a long way! Be genuine in your responses and let your passion for mental health and education shine through. The interviewers are looking for someone who fits into their collaborative team culture, so don’t be afraid to show your personality.