About this role
Job summary
In partnership with Northampton University, successful candidates will be offered a full-time training programme, funded at NHS Agenda for Change (AfC) Band 4 level, to complete the Post-Graduate Diploma to qualify as an Education Mental Health Practitioner (EMHP). On successful completion of the training and professional registration, we anticipate being in a position to offer a full-time position as a fully qualified EMHP. EMHPs cover the Shropshire & Telford Wrekin region and this role is based primarily within the South Shropshire locality.
All applicants must demonstrate in their application the ability to work at degree level, with a proven record of learning or formal study in child development, wellbeing or mental health. Further to that, experience of working with children and young people and an understanding of the educational system in England is highly desirable.
The course starts in September 2026, is 12 months in duration and consists of academic and supervised practice learning across mental health services and educational settings, such as primary and secondary schools, Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) and further education colleges.
Delivery of the programme will be provided through a combination of in-person learning, independent self-guided study days and practical placement experience.
You'll be trained to help children and young people manage common mental health problems, particularly mild to moderate symptoms.
Main duties of the job Main duties of the job
The trainee Educational Mental Health Practitioner (EMHP) roles are funded through the government's priority to increase access and availability of mental health and wellbeing support for children and young people. You will be trained to assess and support children and young people (C&YP) with common mental health difficulties, particularly mild to moderate symptoms of anxiety, depression and behavioural difficulties. You will offer a range of low intensity interventions, 1-1 or in groups, primarily in a school or college setting that are based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and guided self-help. You will also have opportunity to develop whole school approaches in collaboration with educational staff and through co-production with children, young people and carers. This focuses on promotion of mental health and wellbeing through delivery of group interventions, assemblies etc. The training programme starts in September 2026, is 12 months in duration and will consist of academic and supervised practice. As a trainee you will spend part of your week studying at Northampton University and part of your week in service consolidating your learning into practice and developing relationships with schools. Delivery of the taught programme will be provided through a combination of taught days at Northampton University, independent self-guided study days and clinical experience gained in school settings and within the Mental Health Support Team.
About us
Come and work with us at our award-winning NHS Trust, leading the way for trying new and better ways of working to help improve life for our local communities.
We have around 9,000 staff who provide physical and mental healthcare, support for people with learning disabilities, and adult social care across Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent, Shropshire, and Telford & Wrekin. We also run regional and national services, including help for new parents (perinatal care), eating disorders, forensic services, sexual health, and support for people in prison with mental health, drug, or alcohol problems.
We offer great career development for both clinical and non-clinical roles, with ongoing training and support to help you learn and grow.
We are 'United in our Uniqueness' and committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels welcome and can be themselves, no matter their background or identity. We want our staff to feel supported and valued, and we aim to build a team that reflects the communities we serve. Together, we can make sure every voice is heard, and every difference is respected.
Please note, we may be required to close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications
Please be aware that the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in completing application forms will be monitored to ensure fairness and transparency. If you have used AI you must state this in your application.
Job description Job responsibilities
Please find attached the job description and person/role specification.
Please find further information on the role here: https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/psychological-therapies/roles-psychological-therapies/education-mental-health-practitioner
You will need to be able to drive and have access to a vehicle with business insurance cover due to the travel requirements of the training and the service we offer.
This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. If it is identified that you require sponsorship to undertake this role your application may be withdrawn
Person Specification
Experience Essential
Ability to study at degree level Previous experience, understanding or knowledge of children and young people gained in child development, child wellbeing or mental health Demonstrates knowledge of Safeguarding process
Desirable
It is desirable that the applicant will, have previous experience of working with children and young people Knowledge of the educational system in England
Qualifications Essential
Ability to demonstrate study at degree level
Disclosure and Barring Service Check This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer details Employer name Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
Address MHST, CAMHS STW- Severn Fields Medical Practice
Sundorne
Shrewsbury
SY1 4RQ
United Kingdom
Employer's website https://www.mpft.nhs.uk (Opens in a new tab)