Aspiring Art Therapist – Learning Support Assistant Reading

Aspiring Art Therapist – Learning Support Assistant Reading Aspiring Art Therapist – Learning Support Assistant – Reading Start Date: January 2026 Pay: £101.40 per day Hours: 8:30am – 3:45pm (Monday–Friday, Term Time Only) Location: Reading, Berkshire Trial/observation days available Aspiring Art Therapist – Learning Support Assistant Reading – Education and Training Are you a creative individual hoping to build a career in Art Therapy? Do you want a role where your empathy, creativity and passion for helping others can make a lasting impact? We are recruiting Learning Support Assistants on behalf of a specialist education setting in Reading. This role offers meaningful, hands-on experience supporting children and young people with autism, communication differences, sensory needs and learning disabilities. You will work closely with teachers and therapists, using creativity, patience and emotional awareness to help pupils express themselves, build confidence and develop essential life skills. Whether you are an experienced support worker or a graduate exploring art therapy or creative therapeutic careers, this role provides invaluable experience in a nurturing, structured school setting. Aspiring Art Therapist – Learning Support Assistant Reading – Education and Training Why This Role Is Ideal for Creative Graduates & Aspiring Art Therapists This role is perfect for creative individuals with backgrounds in Art, Fine Art, Psychology, Creative Therapies, Design, Early Childhood, SEND or related fields. It allows you to: Build foundational skills essential for Art Therapy training, including emotional attunement, communication and relationship-building. Gain direct experience supporting children with additional needs through creative, sensory and expressive activities. Observe and work alongside therapy and pastoral teams, offering insight into therapeutic approaches used in schools. Use creativity to promote emotional regulation, expression and self-confidence in pupils. Understand how children communicate through behaviour, play and art—key knowledge for future art therapists. Develop a strong portfolio of experience relevant to MA Art Therapy applications. Refine your ability to support wellbeing, mental health and emotional development in young people. This role is an ideal stepping stone for those planning to train as an Art Therapist, Creative Arts Counsellor, Wellbeing Practitioner, or who wish to work in therapeutic education. What You Will Be Doing Supporting pupils on a 1:1 and small-group basis throughout the school day Helping deliver creative, sensory and expressive activities that promote communication and independence Encouraging emotional regulation through art-based, visual or calming strategies Assisting with personal care, feeding or mobility needs where required (full training provided) Working alongside teachers and therapists to implement individual support plans Keeping pupils safe, calm and positively engaged in learning and creative tasks Your creativity and encouragement can change a young person’s day—and sometimes their future. We Would Love to Hear From You If You Have: A creative background or interest in art, design, craft, expressive arts or therapeutic practice Experience supporting children, young people or vulnerable individuals (paid or voluntary) A genuine desire to help pupils express themselves and build confidence Patience, resilience and a calm approach when challenges arise Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset A willingness to learn and grow professionally School-based experience is not required—your creativity, empathy and passion for supporting young people matter most. Training is provided as part of your onboarding. Benefits to YOU: Excellent rates of pay Speedy registration process & fast-track compliance Flexible days and working hours 5-Star rated with over 3000 reviews across Google & Facebook Exclusive school & trust partnerships Access to our FREE Perks Portal – our version of the Blue Light Card 1000+ accredited, discounted CPD courses through Milk Academy FREE PSHE lesson plans and resources FREE Educator Wellbeing eBook and wellbeing hub School Preparation Pack 24/7 support from your personal consultant Access to our Unbottled division delivering lived-experience talks in schools Join the UK’s only eco-friendly education supply agency If you are compassionate, creative, and ready to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people, we would love to speak with you. Aspiring Art Therapist – Learning Support Assistant Reading – Education and Training