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Play Therapist / Teaching Assistant

Location: Local specialist education/therapeutic setting
Contract: Part-time / Full-time (flexible)
Salary: Dependent on experience and qualifications

About the Setting

We are working with a small, nurturing educational and therapeutic provision that works with children and young people who may have experienced adversity. There approach is trauma‑informed, relational, and child‑centred, recognising play as a vital language for healing, expression, and emotional integration.

The Role

We are seeking a compassionate and reflective Play Therapist to join our team that is happy to work on a supply basis, with the view to going full time. The role primarily involves delivering non‑directive play therapy sessions, alongside some general Teaching Assistant and 1:1 SEN support within the wider setting.

This is a varied and meaningful role, ideal for someone who values emotional safety, relationship‑based practice, and holistic support for children.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver individual, non‑directive play therapy sessions in a calm, consistent, and contained environment
• Facilitate therapeutic play using a range of resources such as art materials, small worlds, sand trays, movement and sensory tools
• Work with children who may present with attachment needs, trauma responses, or additional educational needs
• Provide classroom-based support as a Teaching Assistant and/or 1:1 SEN support when required
• Build trusting, attuned relationships through presence, acceptance, and emotional containment
• Work collaboratively with staff and, where appropriate, families to support each student’s emotional and developmental journey
• Maintain appropriate records and uphold safeguarding and confidentiality standards

Person Specification

• Qualified or trainee Play Therapist, or equivalent therapeutic training/experience
• Strong understanding of trauma‑informed and attachment‑aware practice
• Experience working with children or young people with SEN, SEMH, or adverse life experiences
• Ability to work flexibly across therapeutic and classroom-based roles
• Calm, empathetic, and reflective practitioner
• Commitment to inclusive, child‑centred practice

Desirable (but not essential)

• Experience within educational, alternative provision, or therapeutic settings
• Previous Teaching Assistant or 1:1 SEN support experience
• Working towards or holding registration with a relevant professional body

What We Offer

• A supportive, values‑led environment that prioritises emotional wellbeing
• Regular supervision and opportunities for reflective practice
• Ongoing professional development
• The opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting difference in children’s lives

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a short supporting statement outlining your experience and interest in the role.