At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first.
Do not wait to apply after reading this description a high application volume is expected for this opportunity.
That’s why we’re proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, where you can work one day less each week (or equivalent hours), while still receiving your full-time pay.
Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW — and others are preparing to roll it out as soon as they reach full staffing. Job Title: Pastoral Assistant
Location: New Barn School, Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 8HZ
Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Contract: Permanent, Term Time Only
Start Date: January 2026
As part of our continued growth, we are excited to offer a fantastic opportunity for a compassionate and dedicated Pastoral Assistant to join our close-knit team at New Barn School., The Pastoral Assistant plays a vital role in fostering a positive, caring environment tailored to the individual needs of each child or young person. You will support staff by guiding effective approaches to inclusion and behaviour management, ensuring continuous learning and emotional wellbeing throughout the school day.
Support the management of pupil behaviour by providing high-quality care and targeted support to emotionally vulnerable students
Coordinate in-school services to deliver cohesive, integrated provision meeting pupils’ needs
Provide targeted support to help pupils build resilience and develop skills for positive engagement both in lessons and around the school
We seek a compassionate team player with experience or a strong interest in pastoral care, emotional support, and behaviour management in a school environment. You should be committed to helping pupils thrive socially and academically.
Experience working with children or young people with complex social, emotional, and behavioural needs
Strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to build positive relationships with pupils, staff, and families
Empathy and patience, with a genuine commitment to supporting vulnerable pupils
Commitment to promoting an inclusive, positive, and respectful school culture
Flexibility and adaptability to meet the changing needs of pupils and the school environment
A proactive approach to problem-solving and supporting pupil wellbeing
New Barn School is a growing school and caters for SEMH pupils aged 6-19. With almost 100 pupils across three sites, we are searching for someone to help us make a difference. We have a shared vision where we aim to build incredible futures by empowering neurodiverse pupils to be happy and make their way in the world.
Our growing school delivers a structured programme of education, tailored to each student’s individual needs and considering their Education, Health and Care plans. We provide inclusive education within a safe, nurturing environment where pupil’s needs are met.
We are part of Acorn Education and can promise you plenty of challenges, and a rich variety of opportunities to develop your career. Acorn Education is the UK’s leading independent provider of specialist education for vulnerable pupils and young people. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in setting and delivering new approaches that provide measurable outcomes for those in our care.
Why join Acorn Education?
We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so you’ll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
Life Assurance
Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions
“Your Wellbeing Matters” – access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checks
And a market-leading benefit offering through our Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista, enables you to choose the package that’s right for you, including:
A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits
100’s of discount options valid in the UK and abroad
Cycle to Work Schemes
Electric Car Purchase Scheme
Critical illness cover
Family Growth Support - inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support.
4DWW is subject to successful completion of probation and is not a contractual benefit
Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.