Emotional Support Worker - Oxford

Academics Ltd; Oxford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational organization in Oxford seeks an Emotional Support Worker to provide essential care and support to students with SEMH challenges. This full-time role involves offering tailored emotional support, creating individual support plans, and developing strong relationships with students. Ideal candidates will have experience in similar settings and a passion for advocacy in mental health. Apply now for a rewarding opportunity in education.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children or young people with SEMH, special educational needs, or behavioural challenges.
• Emotional resilience and ability to manage challenging situations.
• Passion for inclusion and mental health advocacy.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group emotional support.
• Support students with self-expression and emotional regulation.
• Create individual support plans in partnership with the SEN team.

Skills

Experience supporting children with SEMH

Calm and non-judgemental approach

Emotional resilience

Ability to de-escalate situations

Passion for inclusion and mental health

Education

Qualifications in Psychology, Education, or Youth Work

Job description

Overview

Emotional Support Worker - Oxford

Our specialist school in Oxford is looking for an Emotional Support Worker to join our dedicated team, providing essential care and support to pupils with SEMH challenges, learning difficulties, and complex needs.

This specialist school offers a nurturing and inclusive environment where every young person is seen, heard, and supported. Many of their students face significant barriers to learning, and we are committed to offering them the emotional and educational tools they need to thrive.

Responsibilities

• Offering 1:1 and small-group emotional support tailored to students with SEMH and learning needs
• Supporting students with self-expression, emotional regulation, and managing behaviour positively
• Creating individual support plans in partnership with the SEN team and therapists
• Building consistent, trusting relationships with students to foster emotional safety
• Supporting transitions between lessons and managing emotional dysregulation
• Helping develop social communication skills and resilience strategies
• Working alongside teachers, parents/carers, and external professionals to ensure holistic support
• Tracking emotional and behavioural progress and contributing to review meetings

Qualifications / Ideal candidate

• Have experience supporting children or young people with SEMH, special educational needs, or behavioural challenges
• Bring a calm, consistent and non-judgemental approach
• Be emotionally resilient and able to de-escalate challenging situations
• Have relevant qualifications (e.g., Psychology, Education, Youth Work) - desirable but not essential
• Have a passion for inclusion, mental health advocacy, and trauma-informed care

Key Details

• Emotional Support Worker - Oxford
• £85-£100 per day (depending on experience)
• ASAP
• Full-time, long-term
• Specialist SEMH and Complex Needs School

This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to make a genuine impact in a meaningful career, whether you're a recent graduate, aspiring SEN teacher, future therapist, or simply someone passionate about supporting vulnerable children.

If you're ready to step into a rewarding role where every day brings purpose, growth, and connection, apply now to become an Emotional Support Worker - Oxford