Mental Health Assistant – SEMH School (Oxford)

About the role

This full‑time position supports a specialist Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) school in Oxford, helping students aged 11‑16 manage a range of emotional and behavioural challenges. It is designed for recent Psychology or Criminology graduates seeking hands‑on experience before pursuing further study or a career in mental health, education or youth justice.

Key responsibilities

• Provide one‑to‑one and group support to students with social, emotional and mental health needs.
• Build therapeutic relationships that promote resilience and wellbeing.
• Assist with therapeutic interventions, emotional regulation strategies and coping‑skill activities.
• Encourage positive behaviour and help students develop social skills.
• Collaborate with teachers, therapists and pastoral staff within the SEMH setting.

Required profile

• Graduate in Psychology, Criminology or a related discipline, or a strong interest in mental health and behaviour.
• Empathetic, caring and resilient with excellent communication and active‑listening abilities.
• Confidence working with young people who may display challenging behaviour.
• Previous experience supporting children or vulnerable individuals (e.g., schools, youth work, volunteering) is desirable.

Required skills

• Strong interpersonal and listening skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Basic understanding of child development, trauma‑informed practice and behaviour management.

What we offer

• Daily rate of £90‑£110.
• Monday‑Friday schedule, 8:30 am‑3:30 pm.
• Valuable experience in a specialist SEMH environment, enhancing future postgraduate or professional applications.