Mental Health Teaching Assistant

Are you passionate about supporting children's emotional wellbeing and helping them develop confidence, resilience and positive coping strategies? Are you considering a career in education, psychology, therapy or mental health and looking for valuable experience within a specialist school?

A welcoming specialist school in Salisbury, Wiltshire is seeking a caring and motivated Mental Health Teaching Assistant to join its dedicated support team. You will work with children aged 5-16 who may have Autism, Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, anxiety and other additional learning requirements.

This role offers the opportunity to gain practical experience while working alongside experienced teachers, therapists, psychologists and SEN professionals in a structured, supportive and nurturing educational environment.

The Role

As a Mental Health Teaching Assistant, you will provide tailored support throughout the school day, helping children manage emotional challenges, develop independence and feel more confident in their education.

Your responsibilities will include:

Providing one-to-one and small-group support to children. Helping children recognise and manage their emotions using appropriate strategies. Encouraging confidence, resilience and positive emotional development. Supporting children experiencing anxiety, Autism, SEMH needs and other additional requirements. Implementing agreed strategies to promote positive behaviour and emotional regulation. Helping children overcome barriers to learning and engage positively with classroom activities. Supporting children to develop communication, social and independence skills. Building trusting relationships through a calm, consistent and encouraging approach. Working collaboratively with teachers, therapists, psychologists and SEN professionals. Contributing to a safe, nurturing and inclusive learning environment. Following safeguarding procedures and supporting the overall wellbeing of the children.

About You

The ideal candidate will be patient, compassionate, empathetic and resilient , with a genuine interest in children's mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Previous experience working in education, care or a support environment would be beneficial, although the position may also be suitable for graduates and individuals looking to gain experience within specialist education.

You will need to be confident developing positive relationships with children and able to remain calm and supportive when faced with challenging emotional or behavioural situations.