Social and Emotional Support Worker - Wantage

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

Job summary

A specialist educational institution in Wantage is seeking a dedicated Social and Emotional Support Worker to provide essential care for pupils with SEMH challenges. This full-time role involves offering tailored support, building trusting relationships, and working collaboratively with the SEN team. Ideal candidates should have experience with young people facing behavioral challenges and a passion for inclusive education.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group emotional support tailored to students.
• Create individual support plans with the SEN team.
• Foster trusting relationships to promote emotional safety.
• Track emotional and behavioral progress.

Skills

Empathy

Patience

Emotional resilience

Calm and consistent approach

Education

Psychology

Education

Youth Work

Job description

Social and Emotional Support Worker - Wantage

Our specialist school in Wantage is looking for a Social and 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 a Social and 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 Candidate

• 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

• Social and Emotional Support Worker - Wantage
• £85–£100 per day (depending on experience)
• ASAP start
• Full-time, long-term
• Specialist SEMH 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 Social and Emotional Support Worker - Wantage