At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children and young people with mental health challenges through evidence-based interventions.
- Company: Join a leading mental health provider dedicated to improving wellbeing in the North East.
- Benefits: Gain a postgraduate qualification, competitive salary, and hands-on experience in mental health services.
- Other info: Full-time training role starting January 2027 with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Degree-level ability or relevant experience in child development or mental health required.
The predicted salary is between 26159 - 31972 £ per year.
Child Wellbeing Practitioners (CWPs) are specialist practitioners in assessing and treating mild to moderate depression and anxiety in children and young people. CWPs are highly adaptable, working with children, young people and their families within traditional Child and Adolescent mental health services, local authorities, third sector charities and in schools.
This is firstly a training role within CYP IAPT. The post-holder will work within the Tees Valley Getting Help Team as part of a wider team of practitioners, delivering, with supervision, high-quality, brief outcome focused evidence-based interventions for children and young people experiencing mild to moderate mental health difficulties. These may include psycho-education, self-help and work with presentations such as anxiety, low mood and anger.
The training and service experience will equip the post holder with the necessary knowledge, attitude and capabilities to operate effectively in an inclusive, value driven service. The post holder will attend all university based taught and self-directed study days required by Northumbria University, as specified within the agreed national curriculum and work in the service for the remaining days of the week (3 days) using their newly developed skills as part of schools referral delivery model.
Successful candidates will be offered a full-time educational programme specifically for the role in partnership with Northumbria University. This post will be funded at NHS Agenda for Change (AfC) Band 4 level, gaining credits towards a postgraduate level qualification. There may also be an opportunity for employment on successful completion of training, with a starting salary projected to be based on the NHS AfC Band 5 scale.
To enable this, all applicants must demonstrate in their application the ability to work at degree level or have an equivalent level of relevant experience, with a proven record of previous learning or formal study in child development, wellbeing or mental health. The training programme for this post is due to start in January 2027, is 12 months in duration and will consist of academic and supervised practice learning across mental health services.
Delivery of the programme will be provided through a combination of taught days within the University, independent self-guided study days and experience gained in mental health services. The Link is a Middlesbrough based professional mental health and emotional wellbeing provider. We provide therapeutic services to children, young people and families across the North East including Redcar & Cleveland, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, Stockton on Tees and Darlington.
Our services include a wide range of workshops and training, therapeutic assessments, one to one therapeutic interventions including specialist therapies and Children and Young People Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (CYP IAPT) evidence-based therapies. The Link, along with Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust, Alliance Psychology, The Junction, Teesside Mind, and Changing Futures North East formed a partnership to create the Tees Valley Getting Help Service. By pooling our resources and combining our expertise, we offer a range of mental health support, to make it easier for children, young people and their families to find the help that fits their needs.
We provide a wide range of support, including working directly with children and young people, offering advice and guidance for families, and providing training and support for parents and carers, school staff, and other professionals.
Trainee Children's Wellbeing Practitioner employer: The Link
Link Force Ltd is an excellent employer located in Woolwich, offering a supportive work environment where skilled professionals can thrive. With a focus on employee growth and development, we provide ongoing training opportunities and a commitment to health and safety, ensuring that our team members feel valued and empowered. Join us for meaningful work that allows you to showcase your craftsmanship while being part of a collaborative team dedicated to delivering high-quality finishes.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Children's Wellbeing Practitioner
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Join local mental health events, workshops, or awareness campaigns. You’ll not only learn more about the field, but these gatherings are great places to meet professionals already working in therapy or counselling—who knows, they might even have tips for landing a trainee position!
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re in uni, don’t forget about career services—they're goldmines for finding trainee placements in therapy and counselling. They might host job fairs or have connections with local organisations that are looking for trainees. Make the most of it!
✨Show Off Your Passion Online
Create a blog or use social media to share your thoughts on therapy techniques, mental health topics, or your learning journey. This makes you more visible to potential employers like The Link, showcasing your enthusiasm for the field.
✨Volunteer for Experience
Look for volunteer opportunities at local mental health charities or organisations. Hands-on experience is invaluable and can sometimes lead directly to trainee roles. Plus, it adds weight to your application when you go for positions like Trainee Children's Wellbeing Practitioner with The Link!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Children's Wellbeing Practitioner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Empathy Skills:In therapy and counselling, empathy is key. When crafting your CV and cover letter, show how you've developed this skill through your experiences, whether that’s from volunteer work, personal experiences, or relevant coursework. It’s all about demonstrating that you have the ability to connect with and understand others.
Showcase Relevant Academic Credentials:For a trainee role in therapy and counselling, your educational background matters a lot. Make sure to list your degrees, relevant coursework, and any certifications you have (like a certificate in counselling skills). If you’ve done any projects or placements, mention those too as they show you’re serious about your career path.
Express Your Passion for Learning:As a trainee, showing that you’re keen to learn and grow is crucial. Your cover letter should reflect your motivation for the role at The Link and your eagerness to develop your skills further. Talk about how you’re dedicated to evolving in the field and contributing to positive outcomes with clients.
Tailor Your Application to The Link:Each place has its vibes and focus areas, so take some time to understand what makes The Link unique. In your application, highlight why you resonate with their approach to therapy. This not only personalises your application but also shows that you’ve done your homework – something we can totally appreciate!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Link
✨Showcase Your Empathy and Listening Skills
In the therapy and counselling world, empathy is key. During your interview for the trainee position at The Link, be ready to share examples that demonstrate how you've effectively listened and responded to others' needs. This could be from your studies or any relevant experiences!
✨Prepare for Role-Play Scenarios
Often, interviews for counselling roles include role-play exercises to assess your practical skills. Be ready to engage in a mock counselling session during the interview. Practising a few common scenarios beforehand will help you feel more comfortable and confident!
✨Passion for Learning is Key
As a trainee, they’re likely looking for someone enthusiastic about developing their skills. Be sure to discuss your motivations for entering the therapy field and how you're keen on learning new techniques, therapies, and therapies. This will show that you're committed to your own growth and client care.
✨Discuss Your Theoretical Knowledge
Even as a trainee, they’ll expect a solid foundation in counselling theories. Brush up on key theories and be prepared to discuss how you might apply them practically. This shows you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the framework guiding your future practice at The Link.
