Behaviour Buddy – Alternative Provision Setting
Location: Bradford – Full-time | Long-term Opportunity
About the Role
We are working in partnership with a specialist Alternative Provision setting in Bradford that supports children and young people from KS1 to KS3 who have been, or are at risk of being, excluded from mainstream education.
The setting supports pupils with a range of Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, trauma‑related behaviours, and additional challenges linked to adverse childhood experiences. Many pupils can present with challenging behaviour at times and require consistent, therapeutic, and relationship‑focused support from trusted adults.
The school is seeking a dedicated and resilient Behaviour Buddy who can build strong relationships while maintaining clear boundaries and high expectations. The ideal candidate will be calm under pressure, nurturing in approach, and confident in supporting behaviour positively and consistently.
Your Role
* Supporting pupils on a one‑to‑one basis and in small groups
* Helping students engage with learning and develop emotional regulation skills
* Supporting pupils who may display challenging behaviour, dysregulation, or difficulties with authority and trust
* Building positive relationships that promote safety, structure, and consistency
* Encouraging positive behaviour, resilience, and personal development
* Assisting pupils both inside and outside of the classroom environment
* Working collaboratively with teaching staff, pastoral teams, and external professionals
* Providing feedback on pupil progress, wellbeing, and behaviour
* Supporting pupils to re‑engage with education and develop strategies for success
The Children You Will Support
The pupils within this provision may:
* Have SEMH needs and trauma‑related behaviours
* Be at risk of exclusion or returning from periods out of education
* Require support with emotional regulation and social interaction
* Display challenging behaviours including verbal outbursts, refusal, or dysregulation
* Need consistent routines, boundaries, and positive role models
We Are Looking For Someone Who:
* Is calm, resilient, and able to remain professional in challenging situations
* Can build trust and rapport while maintaining clear boundaries and discipline
* Has a nurturing and empathetic approach, while understanding the importance of structure and accountability
* Is passionate about supporting vulnerable children and young people
* Works well as part of a wider pastoral and behaviour support team
* Understands the impact of trauma and adverse childhood experiences on behaviour
Ideal Backgrounds Include:
* Residential care or support work with Looked After Children (LAC)
* Youth work or mentoring vulnerable young people
* Experience within alternative provisions or SEMH settings
* Young Offender or youth justice experience
* Behaviour support or pastoral roles
* Support work, care, or community‑based intervention roles
The Ideal Candidate Will Be:
* Proactive, adaptable, and able to think on their feet
* Confident managing challenging behaviour using calm and consistent approaches
* Able to form positive, professional relationships with pupils
* Passionate about helping children achieve positive outcomes despite barriers to education
* Committed to safeguarding and inclusive practice
Why Choose Engage Education?
* Competitive pay in line with Agency Worker Regulations
* A dedicated consultant providing ongoing support and guidance
* Access to free CPD and training opportunities delivered by experienced education leaders
* £50 Amazon voucher referral scheme
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