At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with additional needs and promote emotional well-being in a primary school.
- Company: Welcoming primary school in Waltham Forest with a strong focus on inclusion.
- Benefits: Weekly pay, professional development, and hands-on experience in SEND support.
- Other info: Collaborate with experienced professionals and develop skills in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience in mental health.
- Qualifications: 2:1 degree or higher and previous experience supporting young people.
The predicted salary is between 23000 - 27000 £ per year.
Are you passionate about supporting children with additional needs and looking to build meaningful experience within a primary school setting? A welcoming and highly inclusive primary school in Waltham Forest is seeking a Mental Health Support Assistant to join from September 2026 on a full-time, long-term basis until July 2027. This role is particularly well suited to graduates interested in Educational Psychology, Child Therapy, CAMHS, Speech & Language Therapy or wider SEND-focused careers.
The school has developed a strong reputation for pastoral care, early intervention and SEND support, with experienced inclusion staff working closely alongside external professionals to support pupils with SEMH, Autism, ADHD and speech and language needs.
What the School Offers:- Long-term experience within a highly supportive SEND environment
- Weekly CPD and training focused on behaviour, safeguarding and SEMH support
- Opportunities to work closely with the SENDCo and experienced pastoral staff
- Exposure to advice and strategies from Educational Psychologists and Speech & Language Therapists
- Weekly pay of £444 - £513 via PAYE (inclusive of holiday pay)
- Supporting pupils with SEMH and additional learning needs through 1:1 and group intervention
- Assisting teachers in adapting classroom activities for individual pupils
- Building positive relationships that encourage confidence and emotional regulation
- Supporting communication, engagement and social development across the school day
- Working collaboratively with teaching staff, SEND professionals and families
- Holds a 2:1 degree or higher from a leading UK university
- Has previous child-centred experience supporting young people
- Demonstrates strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Has a genuine passion for SEND, mental health and child development
Mental Health Support Assistant in Essex employer: RIBBONS AND REEVES
Join a welcoming and inclusive primary school in Waltham Forest, renowned for its exceptional pastoral care and commitment to supporting children with additional needs. As a Mental Health Support Assistant, you will benefit from a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development through weekly training and collaboration with experienced staff and external professionals. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils while gaining invaluable experience in the field of educational psychology and SEND support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mental Health Support Assistant in Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education and mental health fields. Attend local events or workshops where you can meet professionals who might know about opportunities. Remember, sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Get your online presence sorted! Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your passion for SEND and mental health. Share relevant articles or insights to show your commitment to the field. This can catch the eye of potential employers looking for someone just like you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to mental health support. Think about scenarios where you’ve made a difference in a child’s life. We want you to shine and show how your experiences align with the role of a Mental Health Support Assistant!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals ready to make a difference in the lives of children with additional needs.
We think you need these skills to ace Mental Health Support Assistant in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for supporting children with additional needs. Share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive you to work in this field, especially in mental health and SEND.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your qualifications and experiences that align with the role. Focus on your degree, any child-centred experience, and skills that demonstrate your ability to support pupils with SEMH and additional learning needs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for the Mental Health Support Assistant role. Be specific about how your background and interests align with the school's values and the responsibilities of the position.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. This way, we can easily track your application and get back to you quicker!
How to prepare for a job interview at RIBBONS AND REEVES
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Mental Health Support Assistant inside out. Familiarise yourself with terms like SEMH, Autism, and ADHD, and be ready to discuss how you can support children with these needs. This shows your passion and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past experiences that highlight your ability to support children with additional needs. Whether it's through volunteering, internships, or relevant coursework, having specific stories ready will help you stand out as a candidate who truly understands the challenges and rewards of this role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the school's approach to SEND support, the training opportunities they offer, or how they collaborate with external professionals. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity goes a long way in interviews. Let your genuine passion for mental health and child development shine through. Share why you care about supporting children with additional needs and how you envision making a positive impact in their lives. This personal touch can make a lasting impression.
