Job description
Behaviour Support Worker – Alternative Provision (Primary SEMH) – Portsmouth
Our client school’s Alternative Provision in Portsmouth is seeking calm, resilient, and relationship‑focused Behaviour Support Workers to support primary‑aged children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. The provision supports pupils who may have experienced disrupted education, trauma, anxiety, or difficulties engaging in a mainstream setting, and offers a nurturing, structured environment where every child is supported to thrive.
This is a highly rewarding role for someone who is passionate about helping children build emotional resilience, develop positive behaviour strategies, and re‑engage with learning through trust, consistency, and therapeutic approaches.
Key Responsibilities
1. Providing individualised behaviour and emotional support to primary pupils with SEMH needs
2. Supporting children who may display emotional dysregulation, anxiety, low self‑esteem, or challenging behaviour
3. Using de‑escalation, restorative approaches, and trauma‑informed practice to maintain a safe, calm environment
4. Encouraging engagement through creative, practical, and therapeutic activities tailored to each child’s needs
5. Promoting emotional wellbeing, positive routines, and pro‑social behaviour throughout the school day
6. Helping pupils develop communication, emotional regulation, social interaction, and independence
7. Building strong, trusting relationships through clear boundaries, consistency, and empathy
8. Working collaboratively with teachers, pastoral leads, and external professionals to deliver holistic, child‑centred support
Contract Details
9. Location: Portsmouth
10. Position: Behaviour Support Worker – Alternative Provision (Primary SEMH)
11. Start Date: ASAP
12. Contract Type: Full‑time, with potential for long‑term or permanent opportunities
13. Working Hours: 08:30 – 15:30
14. Pay Rate: From £14 per hour (depending on experience and qualifications)
Requirements
Applicants must:
15. Have the Right to Work in the UK
16. Hold an enhanced child‑barred list DBS on the Update Service (or be willing to apply)
17. Provide professional references covering the last 24 months
18. Hold a Level 2/3 qualification in childcare, education, health & social care, or have relevant experience supporting children with SEMH/SEN needs
What We Offer
19. Free accredited CPD, including safeguarding, behaviour management, trauma‑informed practice, and de‑escalation
20. Access to a specialist Training & Development Team
21. Ongoing support from a dedicated consultant experienced in SEMH and Alternative Provision settings
22. A warm, supportive team culture with clear opportunities for professional growth
Refer a Friend
Know someone who would thrive in an SEMH or Alternative Provision environment? You can earn a referral bonus for every successful recommendation.