Learning Support Assistant - Aspiring Psychologist

Learning Support Assistant – Aspiring Psychologist – Cheltenham

SEMH Specialist School – Term time only – £80–£95 per day – ASAP start

Are you a psychology graduate or aspiring mental health professional looking to gain hands‑on experience supporting vulnerable young people? A rewarding opportunity has become available for a Learning Support Assistant within a specialist SEMH school setting based in Cheltenham.

This role is ideal for someone passionate about helping pupils with additional needs and behaviour support overcome barriers to learning. Working in this SEMH specialist school means supporting children and young people who struggle with emotional regulation, anxiety, trauma responses, or behavioural challenges linked to social, emotional, and mental health needs.

Many students may have experienced adverse childhood experiences, difficulties forming trusting relationships, or challenges managing emotions in structured environments. As a Mental Health Support Assistant, you will provide consistent support, helping students feel safe, understood, and able to engage with education positively.

• Provide emotional and mental health support to students with SEMH needs
• Support pupils who experience anxiety, behavioural challenges, or school avoidance
• Implement tailored strategies to support emotional regulation and engagement
• Work alongside teachers, SEN staff, and therapeutic professionals
• Help create a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment
• Use restorative and relationship‑based approaches to behaviour support
• Support both academic progress and social development

Students in this SEMH specialist setting benefit from predictable routines, strong relationships, and staff who understand trauma‑informed approaches. Being a Learning Support Assistant focuses on building trust and helping students develop coping strategies that enable long‑term progress.

• Empathetic, calm, and resilient when supporting vulnerable students
• Passionate about psychology, mental health, or behaviour support
• Interested in gaining experience within a SEMH specialist school
• Patient and adaptable to meet individual student needs
• A psychology graduate or someone with relevant experience/background (sports, art, drama, or music also welcomed)
• Understanding of safeguarding responsibilities within education
• Holding a clear DBS or willing to apply

This Learning Support Assistant role based in Cheltenham offers invaluable experience for anyone considering careers in psychology, therapy, counselling, education, or youth support. The position provides hands‑on exposure to behaviour strategies, mental health support, and specialist SEMH education.

Apply now to this opportunity by submitting your CV to this advert.