Full job descriptionMental 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 and well resourced SEMH school in Waltham Forest, London?
Academics are working with a specialist SEMH Primary School in Waltham Forest, London who are looking to recruit dedicated and passionate Mental Health Teaching Assistants to join their team from October 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
*Use restorative practice, positive behaviour approaches and consistent routines
*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 therapists to support individual plans
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
* 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
If this sounds like the Mental Health Teaching Assistant role for you in Waltham Forest, London, then please get in touch by calling Yasmin Boffa @ Academics on / emailing