What skills and experience we're looking for
We are seeking a skilled and compassionate Mental Health Practitioner to join the team at our new satellite site. As Mental Health Practitioner, you will play a vital role in supporting the emotional and psychological well-being of our students. Working closely with both students and staff, you will provide tailored mental health support, deliver workshops, and work collaboratively to create a nurturing environment that prioritises the mental health of everyone within our school community.
You will also serve as the Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL), supporting the Designated Safeguarding Lead to ensure the safety and welfare of all students.
Key Responsibilities:
• Provide individual and group counselling to students, addressing a variety of mental health concerns
• Work closely with teachers, parents, and external professionals to develop and implement personalised support plans for students
• Conduct assessments of students’ mental health needs and provide timely and appropriate interventions
• Provide guidance and training to staff on supporting mental health in the classroom and identifying early signs of mental health issues
• Maintain accurate and confidential records in line with safeguarding procedures
• Support the Designated Safeguarding Lead in managing and promoting child protection and safeguarding policies, and ensuring consistent implementation across the school
Key Requirements:
• A degree or equivalent in Occupational Therapy/Psychology/Behaviour Therapy
• Up-to-date training in safeguarding and child protection, with a strong understanding of safeguarding procedures in educational settings
• Experience as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead or willingness to undertake DDSL training upon appointment
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust with students, staff, and parents
What the school offers its staff
Rewards & Benefits:
• Enhanced parental leave schemes
• Cycle to work scheme
• Season ticket loans
• Employee referral scheme
• Membership to Discounts for Teachers
• Discounted gym membership subscription including digital fitness
• Comprehensive training and development
• Access to counselling advice and support via Health Assured
• Commitment to wellbeing supported by our occupational health service and mental-health first aiders
• Scope for career progression across eight college centres, 14 academy schools and shared services team
• Pension scheme - the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) or Teachers Pension Scheme (TPS) both of which have life cover and financial protection for your family.
Please see the attached job description and person specification for full details on the role and the skills, experience and knowledge we are looking for.
Commitment to safeguarding
Bedelsford School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Appointments made will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service.