Trauma-Informed Support Assistant
Location: Sunderland
Contract: Term-time only
Hours: 08:30 – 15:30, Monday – Friday
Start: March 2026
Are you passionate about supporting young people who have experienced adversity? Do you want to play a vital role in helping primary-age pupils re-engage with learning & build resilience? Milk Education is working in partnership with a nurturing secondary provision in Sunderland to appoint a Trauma-Informed Support Assistant to join their committed, relationship-focused team.
About the School
This inclusive secondary setting supports pupils with a range of social, emotional, and mental health needs (SEMH), trauma histories, attachment needs, Autism, and barriers to engagement. Many pupils have experienced disrupted education or challenges that impact their ability to feel safe, regulate their emotions, and access learning.
The school is deeply committed to being trauma-informed, offering young people:
1. A predictable, safe, and supportive environment built on trust and consistency
2. Strength-based teaching and individualised support that recognises pupils’ lived experiences
3. Close collaboration with therapists, external agencies, and families
4. A strong focus on emotional regulation, wellbeing, and developing life skills
5. A relational, restorative approach that celebrates each young person’s growth and identity
Joining this school means becoming part of a compassionate, skilled team dedicated to transforming pupils’ experiences of education.
Role: Trauma-Informed Support Assistant
You will work closely with teachers, pastoral staff, and SEN practitioners to support pupils’ emotional wellbeing, re-engagement with learning, and development of essential life skills. You will provide individualised, trauma-aware support throughout the school day, acting as a consistent, calm, and trusted adult for young people who may struggle with relationships, regulation, or confidence.
Key Responsibilities
Trauma-Informed Pupil Support
6. Build safe, trusting, and respectful relationships using trauma-informed principles
7. Provide 1:1 and small-group support focused on emotional regulation, resilience, and self-confidence
8. Use co-regulation strategies, restorative conversations, and reflective practice to help pupils understand their emotions and responses
Improving Engagement in Learning
9. Support pupils at risk of disengagement, school avoidance, or challenging behaviour
10. Help pupils access learning by reducing barriers, encouraging participation, and fostering a sense of belonging
11. Assist with transitions during the day and provide consistent routines
Promoting Wellbeing & Positive Behaviour
12. Model calm, predictable behaviour and support pupils in developing their own regulation strategies
13. Use de-escalation approaches and strength-based communication
14. Observe, record, and share information related to pupils’ progress, behaviour, and wellbeing
Supporting Future Pathways
15. Help pupils develop essential life skills such as communication, independence, problem-solving, and decision-making
16. Encourage aspirations and support preparation for post-16 routes, employment, or training
17. Promote confidence, resilience, and readiness for adulthood
Essential Criteria
18. Experience supporting young people with SEMH, trauma, ASD, or complex needs (school or care backgrounds welcome)
19. Understanding of trauma-informed practice and its impact on behaviour and learning
20. Calm, patient, and emotionally resilient, with the ability to form strong, positive relationships
21. Strong communication, teamwork, and reflective skills
22. A flexible, nurturing approach and a genuine commitment to supporting vulnerable young people
Why Work with Milk Education?
Milk Education are an eco-friendly, purpose-driven supply agency, driven to make a change, with a mission to be the MOST REWARDING agency to work both with and for.
Benefits to YOU:
23. Excellent rates of pay
24. Health and wellbeing support
25. Free Lesson Plans
26. 24/7 access to your personal consultant
27. Training support sessions
28. Referral programme
29. Support and guidance if you wish to progress into a permanent role
If you’re ready to make a real difference in the lives of young people—helping them re-engage, regulate, and build brighter futures—we’d love to hear from you.
Please email your CV to
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £101.40 – £110 per day
Work Location: In person
Ref: INNEW