Mental Health Assistant - Specialist School
Location: Reading, Berkshire
Start Date: ASAP
Pay: £90-£105 per day
Hours: Full-Time (8:30-15:30)

Are you a Psychology graduate or aspiring mental health professional looking to gain hands-on experience supporting children and young people? Do you want to help pupils manage emotional challenges and build the confidence to succeed?

A specialist school in Reading is seeking a compassionate Mental Health Assistant to join its team as soon as possible. This is an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience supporting pupils with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs in a structured and supportive environment.

As a Mental Health Assistant, you will work alongside teachers and pastoral staff to help pupils develop coping strategies, build positive relationships and engage with their education.

Key responsibilities:

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support to pupils experiencing emotional and behavioural difficulties.
• Build trusting relationships and encourage pupils to communicate their feelings.
• Promote emotional regulation, resilience and positive coping strategies.
• Support pupils who may experience anxiety, low confidence or difficulties with social interaction.
• Help maintain a safe, calm and inclusive learning environment.
• Work collaboratively with school staff to implement individual support strategies.

The ideal Mental Health Assistant will be empathetic, patient and resilient, with strong communication skills and a genuine interest in children's wellbeing. Previous experience in education, care, mentoring or mental health support is beneficial but not essential.

This Mental Health Assistant role is ideal for Psychology, Criminology or Sociology graduates considering careers in mental health, counselling, educational psychology or social work. You will gain valuable experience supporting vulnerable young people while developing transferable skills.

If you are ready to make a difference as a Mental Health Assistant in Reading, please upload your updated CV directly to this advert.

Academics is a leading education recruitment agency, delivering continuity in the classroom.

Mental Health Assistant - Reading - Specialist School - ASAP Start - Full-Time - £90-£105 per day

Salary will be determined by the successful candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, and will be in accordance with the client's pay policy.