Mental Health Support Worker - Summertown

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

Job summary

A specialist education provider in Oxford is seeking a Mental Health Support Worker to provide essential emotional and educational support to students with SEMH challenges. The role involves creating support plans and fostering trusting relationships with students. Ideal candidates will have experience in supporting vulnerable children and exhibit emotional resilience. Competitive daily pay of £85–£100 depending on experience. This position offers a fulfilling opportunity in a nurturing environment.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children or young people with SEMH or behavioural challenges.
• Strong understanding of emotional and behavioural needs.

Responsibilities

• Offer 1:1 and small-group emotional support for students with SEMH.
• Create individual support plans with the SEN team and therapists.
• Build trusting relationships with students.

Skills

Emotional resilience

Calm and consistent approach

Ability to de-escalate challenging situations

Passion for inclusion

Trauma-informed care

Education

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

Job description

Overview

Mental Health Support Worker - Summertown

Our specialist school in Summertown is looking for a Mental Health 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.

We are seeking a Mental Health 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

Qualifications

• 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

• Mental Health Support Worker - Summertown, Oxford
• £85–£100 per day (depending on experience)
• ASAP 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 a Mental Health Support Worker in Oxford!