At a Glance
- Tasks: Support therapy programmes and deliver engaging activities to help students thrive.
- Company: Unified Academy, a special school dedicated to empowering vulnerable learners.
- Benefits: Career progression, pension schemes, employee wellbeing support, and discounts.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to transforming lives and promoting equality.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with young people facing social, emotional, and mental health challenges.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 26000 £ per year.
Support the implementation of therapy programmes designed by therapists and/or the SENCO. Deliver agreed therapeutic activities and interventions under supervision. Assist students to regulate emotions and access learning throughout the school day. Support interventions such as emotional regulation work, social skills programmes, therapeutic mentoring, sensory regulation activities, creative therapeutic activities and Canine Assisted Learning where applicable.
Unified Academy, located in Dorking, is a special school for boys aged 9 to 16 who have social, emotional, and mental health needs. Many of our students also face moderate learning and attachment difficulties. The school takes a highly personalised approach to education, with small class sizes and carefully tailored lessons that consider the individual needs, interests, and abilities of each student. This ensures that their learning is purposeful, engaging, and relevant.
Responsibilities
- Support the implementation of therapy programmes designed by therapists and/or the SENCO.
- Deliver agreed therapeutic activities and interventions under supervision.
- Assist students to regulate emotions and access learning throughout the school day.
- Support interventions such as emotional regulation work, social skills programmes, therapeutic mentoring, sensory regulation activities, creative therapeutic activities and Canine Assisted Learning where applicable.
Qualifications
- Experience of working with young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health difficulties and/or challenging behaviour.
- Understanding of trauma informed practice.
- Knowledge of safeguarding procedures.
- Highly adaptable and flexible.
- A genuine passion for supporting vulnerable learners.
Benefits
- Pathways for progression within the trust, ensuring you can grow and thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Pension Scheme – you will be enrolled in either the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) or the Teachers' Pension Scheme (TPS), both offering life cover and financial protection for your family.
- Salary Sacrifice Schemes (Cycle Scheme, Employee Car Lease Scheme and Home Electronics Scheme).
- Employee Wellbeing – We support employee wellbeing with access to counselling, mental health support, generous leave, flexible working, and enhanced parental leave (including Employee Assistance Programme, MyGym Discounts, Corporate Eyecare Scheme and Free Virtual GP Appointments).
- Employee Discounts (Blue Light Card, Costco Membership, Discounts for Teachers, and more).
- Other (Season Ticket Loan and Employee Referral Scheme).
We are committed to promoting and advancing equality of opportunity by attracting and retaining the most diverse range of students, staff and partners. Working together to transform lives is what we do and across the whole organisation we have a range of experts and practitioners who advocate for children and young people with SEND to ensure they receive the best possible opportunities to achieve their full potential.
Therapy Assistant in Dorking employer: Unified Academy
Unified Academy in Dorking is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for both staff and students. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, we offer comprehensive benefits including pension schemes, mental health support, and opportunities for professional growth within the trust. Our commitment to personalised education ensures that you will be part of a team that truly makes a difference in the lives of vulnerable learners, all while enjoying a collaborative and engaging work culture.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Therapy Assistant in Dorking
✨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 Unified Academy. 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 Unified Academy.
We think you need these skills to ace Therapy Assistant in Dorking
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 Unified Academy:Take some time to research Unified Academy 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 Unified Academy
✨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 Unified Academy's values and approach.
