Emotional Support Worker - Wantage

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

Job summary

A specialist SEMH school in Wantage is seeking an Emotional Support Worker to provide crucial 1:1 and small-group emotional support to students with SEMH challenges. The ideal candidate will bring empathy, patience, and experience working with young people facing emotional and behavioural difficulties. This is a full-time position offering £85–£100 per day, starting in January, perfect for those passionate about making a positive impact on vulnerable children's lives.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children or young people with SEMH or behavioural challenges.
• Emotionally resilient and able to handle challenging situations.
• Passion for inclusion and mental health advocacy.

Responsibilities

• Provide tailored 1:1 and small-group emotional support to students.
• Create individual support plans with the SEN team.
• Track emotional and behavioural progress.

Skills

Empathy

Patience

Understanding of emotional and behavioural needs

Ability to build trusting relationships

Calm and non-judgemental approach

De-escalation skills

Education

Relevant qualifications (e.g., Psychology, Education, Youth Work)

Job description

Emotional Support Worker - Wantage

Our specialist school in Wantage 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.

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

Ideal Emotional Support Worker

• 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 - Wantage
• £85–£100 per day (depending on experience)
• January Start
• 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 - Wantage