Aspiring Psychologist - Durham

Job Description Aspiring Educational Psychologist / Forensic Psychologist / Occupational Therapist Learning Support AssistantAre you a graduate or currently working as a Learning Support Assistant and looking to take the next step towards a career in educational psychology, forensic psychology or occupational therapy?Do you want a role where your empathy, patience and resilience can genuinely transform the educational experience of young people who struggle to access school?We are recruiting Learning Support Assistants on behalf of a specialist education setting in Durham. This role provides valuable, hands-on experience supporting children and young people who experience anxiety, emotionally based school avoidance (school refusal), autism, communication differences and additional learning needs.Many pupils at this setting come from a range of backgrounds and have struggled to engage with mainstream education due to anxiety, past negative experiences in school, or complex emotional needs. Your role will be to help rebuild their confidence, trust in education and sense of safety in learning environments.You will work within a small, supportive class team where the focus is on personalised learning, emotional regulation and relationship building, helping pupils gradually re-engage with education at their own pace.This role starts April 2026, working Monday to Friday, term time only, making it ideal for graduates or support professionals seeking consistent experience within education.Pay: 101.40 per dayWhy this role is ideal for aspiring Educational Psychologists, Forensic Psychologists or Occupational Therapists:This position provides direct experience with children experiencing anxiety, trauma, school avoidance and additional learning needs, which is highly relevant for careers in psychology, therapy and SEND education.You will gain valuable insight into:Supporting children with emotionally based school avoidance and anxietyBuilding trust with pupils who have struggled in traditional education settingsUsing trauma-informed and person-centred approachesUnderstanding behaviour linked to anxiety, emotional regulation and past experiencesWorking within a multi-disciplinary team including teachers, therapists and external professionalsHelping pupils rebuild confidence, routine and engagement with learningSupporting young people from diverse social, cultural and educational backgroundsMany graduates use this role to confirm whether a career in educational psychology, youth justice, occupational therapy, mental health support or SEND education is the right pathway for them.What you will be doingSupporting pupils 1:1 and in small groups throughout the school dayHelping children who experience anxiety or school refusal feel safe and supported in the classroomBuilding positive relationships with pupils who may initially struggle to trust adults in education settingsEncouraging communication, confidence and emotional regulationSupporting structured activities that promote independence and life skillsHelping pupils manage transitions, routines and social situationsWorking closely with teachers and therapists to implement individual support plansEncouraging engagement with learning through patience, consistency and positive reinforcementYour support can play a key role in helping a young person reconnect with education and believe in their ability to succeed.

Created: 2026-03-20