Learning Support Assistant and Student Mentor (SEND)

Five Education is recruiting a proactive and resilient teaching assistant to support students at an alternative education provider in South Bristol. This centre caters to post-compulsory age young people (16+) with a range of SEMH needs. Many of the pupils present with challenging behaviour and so we are seeking composed, confident and collaborative individuals able to provide consistency and set boundaries in challenging situations. Experience in education, care, youth work or behaviour support is highly desirable, though not essential: your attitude and ability to build trust are what matter most. Main Responsibilities: • Provide structured 1:1 or small group support to students with behavioural needs • Use de-escalation strategies and consistent boundaries to manage challenging behaviour • Work closely with other staff to implement behaviour plans and support strategies • Encourage students to re-engage with learning through positive relationships and tailored support • Support pupils during unstructured times such as break and lunch to ensure safety and inclusion Essential Criteria: • Confident, proactive, and emotionally resilient • Passionate about supporting children and young people with additional needs • Available to work full-time, Monday to Friday, 8:30–15:30 (term-time only) • Right to work in the UK – we are unable to offer sponsorship or accept Skilled Worker visas • Able to provide two recent references (from the last two years) • Hold a current DBS check on the Update Service, or be willing to apply for one *Please note, if you do not have a Non-Voluntary Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, we will need to help you process a new one at a cost of £62.70. This will be refunded after 20 days of work with us.