Mental Health Assistant - Headington

Mental Health Assistant - Headington, Oxford

£92 - £105 per day | Full-Time | September Start

Are you a Psychology graduate looking to gain invaluable experience working with vulnerable young people before pursuing a career in Clinical Psychology, Educational Psychology, Counselling, Mental Health or Social Work?

This is an exciting opportunity for a Mental Health Assistant to join a specialist Alternative Provision setting supporting children and young people aged 5-16 who require a more personalised and nurturing approach to education.

As a Mental Health Assistant, you will support students who may have experienced barriers to learning, social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) challenges, behavioural difficulties, trauma, low self-esteem or disrupted educational journeys. The school is committed to helping young people rebuild confidence, re-engage with learning and achieve positive outcomes for their future.

The successful Mental Health Assistant will work within small class groups, receiving support from a multidisciplinary team including teachers, mentors, therapists and pastoral staff. The setting takes a trauma-informed and restorative approach, focusing on building positive relationships, resilience, emotional literacy and self-confidence.

• Supporting students with SEMH needs and behavioural challenges
• Working as a Mental Health Assistant to promote emotional wellbeing and engagement
• Building positive, trusting relationships with young people
• Supporting emotional regulation and social skills development
• Assisting students both inside and outside the classroom
• Helping pupils develop confidence, resilience and independence
• Working closely with teachers, mentors and external professionals

• Psychology Graduate or graduate from a related subject
• Aspiring Clinical Psychologist, Educational Psychologist, Counsellor or Therapist
• Passionate about supporting vulnerable children and young people
• Calm, resilient and empathetic
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Previous experience working with children, young people or vulnerable adults is desirable

• Outstanding experience for aspiring psychologists
• Gain hands‑on experience supporting SEMH and behavioural needs
• Work within small classes and highly supportive teams
• Learn from experienced mentors, therapists and education professionals
• Develop knowledge of trauma-informed and restorative practice
• Make a genuine difference to young people's lives every day

This Mental Health Assistant role offers an exceptional foundation for graduates looking to build a career in psychology, mental health or specialist education. If you're looking for a rewarding and meaningful Mental Health Assistant position where you can support young people to overcome barriers and achieve success, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today to become a Mental Health Assistant and start making a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people.