Mental Health Teaching Assistant

Academics; Ilford; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free car parking

Great transport links

Staff training

Job summary

Academics are seeking a Mental Health Teaching Assistant for a specialist SEMH primary school in Redbridge, London. The role starts October or November 2026 on a full-time, permanent basis, supporting pupils up to age 11 with SEMH needs and behavioural challenges.

You will work 1:1 and in small groups to build confidence, resilience and emotional regulation, while collaborating with teachers, behaviour staff and therapists to help students access learning.

Qualifications

• Calm, patient, and trauma-informed approach to supporting vulnerable students.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
• Experience with mental health, challenging behaviour, youth work, SEN or similar settings is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Support students up to age 11 with SEMH needs, low mood, anxiety and behavioural difficulties.
• Work 1:1 and in small groups to build confidence, resilience and emotional regulation.
• Provide patient, structured support to help students access learning.
• Build trusting, professional relationships with pupils who may find school challenging.
• Collaborate with teachers, behaviour staff and therapists.

Skills

Calm under pressure

Trauma-informed

Strong communication

Team player

Education

Teaching Assistant course

Degree in Psychology

Job description

Mental Health Teaching Assistant

Are you passionate about supporting children and young people with mental health needs, trauma, anxiety and behavioural challenges?

Do you want to make a genuine difference to children at a supportive SEMH school in Redbridge, London?

Academics are working with a specialist SEMH Primary School in Redbridge, London who are looking to recruit dedicated and passionate Mental Health Teaching Assistants to join their team from October or November 2026 on a full time and permanent basis.

This role would suit individuals who are calm, resilient and committed to helping vulnerable young people to thrive academically, emotionally and socially.

Ideally you will have experience working with mental health or in schools as a teaching assistant. If you do not have direct experience then ideally you will hold relevant qualifications such as Teaching Assistant course, or a degree in Psychology, mental health or have a counselling or relevant qualification to work with mental health.

The Role - Mental Health Teaching Assistant:

• Support students up to age 11 with SEMH needs, low mood, anxiety, history of trauma and behavioural difficulties
• Work 1:1 and in small groups to build confidence, resilience and emotional regulation
• Help students access learning by providing patient, structured support
• Build trusting, professional relationships with pupils who may find school challenging
• Work closely with teachers, behaviour staff and therapistsIdeal Candidate - Mental Health Teaching Assistant:

Ideal Candidate - Mental Health Teaching Assistant:

• Experience working with mental health, challenging behaviour, youth work, care, SEN, PRU, or alternative provisions as well as mainstream schools
• A calm, patient and trauma-informed approach
• Confidence supporting young people with emotional and behavioural needs
• Ability to remain professional, resilient and consistent
• A genuine desire to help young people overcome barriers and succeed
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team

Psychology, Criminology, Social Work, Counselling or related graduates are especially encouraged to apply, but experience and attitude are equally valued.

What the School Can Offer:

• Permanent role from October 2026 or November 2026
• Salary £23,000 - £35,000 depending on experience
• Excellent staff support and training
• A therapeutic, relational behaviour model
• Opportunities for education and training & progression into Teaching, Education Psychologist, School Counsellor etc
• A warm and committed team who genuinely care about their pupils
• FREE car parking & great transport links

Mental Health Teaching Assistant

Redbridge, London

Salary will be determined by the successful candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, and will be in accordance with the client's pay policy