Redbridge Mental Health Support Assistant – January 2026 Start

Are you a Mental Health Support Assistant looking to gain meaningful experience in a secondary school setting? This Mental Health Support Assistant role in Redbridge is an excellent opportunity to support young people with their wellbeing while developing long-term school-based experience from January 2026.

This Redbridge secondary school is rated Good with elements of Outstanding practice and is recognised for its calm environment and strong pastoral systems. The school has a clear, well-structured curriculum supported by consistent behaviour expectations across Key Stages 3 and 4. There is a strong focus on inclusion, with well-established SEN and pastoral provision supporting pupils with ASD, ADHD and SEMH needs. Staff work closely as a team, and student wellbeing is central to the school’s values and daily practice.

Mental Health Support Assistant – What the School Offers

• A structured induction and ongoing CPD focused on mental health and pupil wellbeing
  
  
• Clear and supportive behaviour systems across the secondary phase
  
  
• Strong mentoring and guidance for support staff
  
  
• A collaborative pastoral and SEN team culture
  
  
• Opportunities for extended contracts or progression into teacher training
  
  

Mental Health Support Assistant – What the Role Involves

• Providing 1:1 and small-group mental health support as a Mental Health Support Assistant
  
  
• Supporting pupils with SEMH needs within mainstream classrooms and pastoral spaces
  
  
• Assisting students with emotional regulation, engagement and coping strategies
  
  
• Working closely with teachers, SEN staff and pastoral leads to support wellbeing
  
  
• Helping to maintain a calm, safe and inclusive learning environment
  
  

Mental Health Support Assistant – What the School is Looking For The school is seeking a Mental Health Support Assistant with a 2:1 or First-Class degree from a top 30 UK university and some form of child-centred experience. The ideal Mental Health Support Assistant will be proactive, compassionate and resilient, with strong communication skills and a genuine interest in adolescent mental health and education.

Please note, applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK, as we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position.

Mental Health Support Assistant – Salary and Contract Info

• £444 per week, pro rata to term time only
  
  
• Full-time, long-term contract (January–July)
  
  
• Term-time only
  
  
• Potential for extended contracts or future teacher training
  
  

This Mental Health Support Assistant role offers a rewarding opportunity to gain valuable secondary school experience in a supportive and forward-thinking environment, ideal for those considering careers in teaching, psychology or pastoral work.

Ribbons & Reeves is one of London’s leading Education Recruitment agencies. We specialise in helping support staff secure long-term and permanent roles like this Mental Health Support Assistant position in Redbridge. For more opportunities, search ‘Ribbons & Reeves’ online or get in touch today – we’re here to support your next step.

Mental Health Support Assistant | January 2026 | INDHOT