SEMH Support Assistant – Aspiring Psychologist (Term-Time)

GSL Education; Greater London; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

GSL Education in London is seeking a compassionate graduate to work as a Mental Health & SEMH Support Assistant in a Southwark primary school. The role is full-time, term-time, with daily pay and strong professional development opportunities.

You will provide 1:1 and small-group SEMH support, help pupils access lessons, and use trauma-informed approaches to reduce anxiety. This hands-on experience is ideal for aspiring psychologists and educational specialists.

Qualifications

• Strong interest in psychology, mental health, neurodivergence, or child development.
• Experience (paid) in youth work, SEN support, coaching or counselling.
• Calm, patient, empathetic and emotionally resilient personality.
• Strong communication skills and ability to build trust with vulnerable young people.
• Genuine passion for supporting children’s mental health and wellbeing.

Responsibilities

• Providing 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with SEMH and neurodivergent needs.
• Supporting pupils who may present with anxiety, emotional distress, or challenging behaviour.
• Using trauma-informed, de-escalation, and co-regulation techniques to support pupils in crisis.
• Helping pupils access lessons and classroom activities by removing emotional and sensory barriers.
• Encouraging routine, structure, and predictability to reduce anxiety.
• Using calm, consistent behaviour support and restorative approaches.
• Collaborating with teachers, SENCOs, therapists, CAMHS professionals, and pastoral teams.
• Acting as a positive role model for patience, empathy, resilience, and emotional regulation.

Skills

Interest in psychology

Experience in youth work/SEN support

Calm, patient, empathetic

Strong communication

Passion for child mental health

Job description

GSL Education in London is seeking a compassionate graduate to work as a Mental Health & SEMH Support Assistant in a Southwark primary school. The role is full-time, term-time, with daily pay and strong professional development opportunities.

You will provide 1:1 and small-group SEMH support, help pupils access lessons, and use trauma-informed approaches to reduce anxiety. This hands-on experience is ideal for aspiring psychologists and educational specialists.