Are you passionate about supporting young people who have experienced trauma?
We are seeking a compassionate, resilient and reflective Mental Health Teaching Assistant to join our specialist school in Reading. Our pupils are aged 5-18 and have experienced adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), trauma, and neglect. Many present with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.
This is a unique opportunity to make a genuine difference in young people's lives - helping them feel safe, understood and able to learn.
We particularly welcome applications from graduates in Psychology, Counselling, Criminology, Social Work, Youth Work or related fields. However, we warmly encourage candidates from all educational backgrounds who share our values and commitment to trauma-informed practice.
We are a specialist setting built around:
Therapeutic approaches
Restorative practice
Attachment-aware and trauma-informed principles
A strong, supportive multi-disciplinary teamThe Role
As a Mental Health Teaching Assistant, you will:
Provide 1:1 support to pupils with SEMH needs
Lead and support small group interventions
Help pupils develop emotional regulation, social skills and resilience
Build safe, consistent and trusting relationships
Support learning within and outside the classroom
Contribute to behaviour support and therapeutic plans
Work closely as part of a multi-disciplinary teamThis role goes beyond traditional classroom support - you will play a key role in a child's emotional development and sense of safety.
Who We're Looking For
You might be:
A Psychology, Counselling or Criminology graduate looking for practical experience
Considering a future career in clinical psychology, educational psychology, psychotherapy, youth justice, social work or teaching
Experienced in care, youth work, support work or education
Passionate about trauma-informed practice
Calm, patient and emotionally intelligent
Resilient and able to maintain professional boundariesExperience working with children or vulnerable groups is desirable, but your values, attitude and willingness to learn are just as important.
What We Offer
A supportive and reflective team environment
Ongoing professional development and training in therapeutic approaches
Regular supervision and guidance from experienced professionals
Meaningful, hands-on experience working with complex needs
The opportunity to see real, lasting impactIf you are motivated by purpose, compassion and the belief that every child deserves safety and opportunity, we would love to hear from you.
Key Information
Reading based Specialist school
ASAP Start / September Start
£90 - £110 per day
Full Time
FANTASTIC experience for graduates
Amazing students and a warm and friendly schoolReading Specialist School - ASAP Start / September Start / Full Time
Salary description
£90.00 - £110.00 per day