Emotional Support Worker - Oxford

Academics Ltd.; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialist educational organization in Oxford is seeking an Emotional Support Worker to provide 1:1 and small-group emotional support to students facing SEMH challenges. The ideal candidate will have experience with emotional and behavioral needs, and a passion for inclusion and mental health advocacy. This full-time role offers £85-£100 per day, depending on experience, and is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on vulnerable children.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children or young people with SEMH, special educational needs, or behavioral challenges.
• Ability to de-escalate challenging situations.
• Passion for inclusion, mental health advocacy, and trauma-informed care.

Responsibilities

• Offering 1:1 and small-group emotional support tailored to students with SEMH and learning needs.
• Supporting students with self-expression and emotional regulation.
• Creating individual support plans in partnership with SEN team and therapists.
• Building trusting relationships to foster emotional safety.
• Tracking emotional and behavioral progress.

Skills

Empathy

Patience

Emotional resilience

Non-judgemental approach

Social communication skills

Education

Relevant qualifications (e.g. Psychology, Education, 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 offer 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.

We are seeking an Emotional Support Worker who can bring empathy, patience, and a strong understanding of emotional and behavioural needs. In this role, you will provide tailored 1:1 and small-group emotional support to students who often struggle with self-regulation, anxiety, trauma, or attachment difficulties.

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

The ideal Emotional Support Worker will

• 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