Support Mentor The Willows Child Development (Therapeutic Alternative Provision)
Locations: Willow Forest (outdoor provision) & Willow House (indoor provision)
Hours: Flexible / Part-time or Full-time considered
Salary: £15-£20 per hour
Start date: TBC
About Us
We are a therapeutic alternative provision supporting children and young people aged 5–16 who struggle to access mainstream education due to autism, ADHD, trauma, adverse childhood experiences, mental health needs and, for some children, Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD).
Our work is rooted in trauma-informed, neuro-affirming practice, drawing on PACE, psycholudic research, sensory integration and forest school and playwork principles. We prioritise safety, regulation, communication, and connection, meeting each child exactly where they are developmentally and emotionally.
The Role
We are seeking a Support Mentor to work directly with children and young people across our outdoor setting Willow Forest and indoor provision Willow House during term time only.
You will deliver 1:1, 2:1, and small group support, including supporting children with complex needs and PMLD, adapting your approach to each child's communication style, sensory profile, and physical needs.
This role requires attunement, patience, curiosity, and a deep respect for difference.
Key Responsibilities
* Build strong, trusting, and attuned relationships with children and young people
* Deliver therapeutic, relational support in 1:1, 2:1 and small group settings
* Support children with a wide range of needs, including PMLD, using personalised, sensory-led and communication-informed approaches
* Deliver Life skills challenges through ASDAN - full training provided
* Support emotional and sensory regulation through co-regulation, play, and nature-based activities
* Work outdoors in all seasons at Willow Forest and indoors at Willow House
* Support children and young people to access the local community
* Follow individual support plans, sensory and communication profiles, and risk assessments
* Work collaboratively with families
* Maintain clear, professional records and contribute to progress and well-being reporting
* Uphold safeguarding, dignity, and trauma-informed practice at all times
We Are Looking For Someone Who
* Has experience working with children or young people with complex needs, including autism and/or PMLD (or a strong willingness to learn)
* Understands that behaviour is communication
* Is calm, emotionally available, and able to co-regulate rather than control
* Is confident adapting communication methods (e.g. non-verbal communication, sensory cues)
* Is comfortable working outdoors
* Reflective, resilient, and able to work safely with complexity
* Is empathetic and reliable
Formal qualifications are welcomed but not essential. The right values, curiosity, and relational capacity are key.
What We Offer
* Full training in trauma-informed, neuro-affirming and PMLD-informed practice
* Ongoing supervision, reflective practice, and team support
* A calm, ethical, and child-centred working environment
* Opportunities to develop specialist skills in complex needs, sensory integration, and nature-based therapeutic work
* A culture that prioritises staff wellbeing, safety, and thoughtful practice
Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, and compliance with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE).
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent
Pay: £15.00-£20.00 per hour
Benefits:
* Company events
* Company pension
* Employee mentoring programme
* Flexitime
* Free parking
* On-site parking
Work Location: In person