At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vulnerable students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs in a structured environment.
- Company: Watling Academy, dedicated to fostering emotional safety and resilience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time hours, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a passionate team committed to creating a culture of empathy and support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and help them thrive in school.
- Qualifications: Experience in supporting students with SEMH needs and strong emotional intelligence.
The predicted salary is between 22682 - 25046 £ per year.
Commencing - September 2026
Term Time Only
32.5 hours per week Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 3:30pm
Salary - £30,518 to £33,699 FTE
Actual Salary - £22,682 £25,046 p.a.
Are you motivated by helping vulnerable students regulate, reconnect and thrive in school? Can you take ownership of a specialist provision and ensure it runs smoothly day to day?
The Role
Watling Academy is seeking a highly skilled and empathetic SEND Support Worker to lead the day‑to‑day operation of our SEND Base Reset Area and provide specialist support for students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs. You will create a safe, calm and structured environment where students can regulate, reflect and re‑engage with learning, using evidence‑based approaches to help them build resilience and develop positive coping strategies.
Working closely with the SENCo, pastoral team, teaching staff and external agencies, you will deliver targeted interventions, contribute to EHCP reviews, support reintegration into mainstream lessons and model SEMH‑informed practice across the Academy. You will also play a key role in developing staff understanding of SEMH needs, sharing expertise and promoting a whole‑school culture of empathy, consistency and emotional safety.
This is a role for a confident practitioner who can combine emotional intelligence with professional rigour, and who is committed to improving outcomes for some of our most vulnerable learners.
SEND Support Worker (SEMH) - HLTA employer: Watling Academy
Watling Academy is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for both staff and students. With a strong emphasis on professional development, our team members are encouraged to grow their skills and expertise in supporting vulnerable learners, while enjoying a collaborative work culture that prioritises empathy and emotional safety. Located in a vibrant community, we offer a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Support Worker (SEMH) - HLTA
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work with SEND students. They might know about opportunities that aren't advertised yet or can give you a heads-up on what schools are looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEMH needs. Think about how you would handle specific scenarios and be ready to share your experiences. We want to see your passion for helping vulnerable students shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! If you've got any relevant certifications or training, make sure to highlight them during your conversations. We love seeing candidates who are proactive about their professional development.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it gives us a chance to see your enthusiasm for the role right from the start.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Support Worker (SEMH) - HLTA
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting vulnerable students shine through. We want to see how motivated you are to help them thrive and reconnect with learning.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in working with students with SEMH needs. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and understanding of the challenges these students face.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This helps us see your qualifications quickly!
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 ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Watling Academy
✨Know Your SEMH Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used in the past to support students with these challenges. This shows that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, demonstrate your emotional intelligence. Share examples of how you've created safe and structured environments for students. Highlight your ability to connect with vulnerable learners and help them thrive, as this is key to the role.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
Talk about your experience working with various teams, including SENCo, pastoral staff, and external agencies. Emphasise your collaborative approach and how you’ve contributed to a whole-school culture of empathy and support. This will show that you can work well within their existing framework.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Think of specific situations where you’ve successfully managed challenging behaviours or supported a student’s reintegration into mainstream lessons. This will help you stand out as a confident practitioner.
