Student Support Mentor (Secondary)
Location: Bristol
Start Date: ASAP
Hours: Full or Part-time, Term-time only
(Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 3:30pm)
Contract: Temporary with potential for permanent placement
About the Role
Are you passionate about supporting young people to overcome barriers to learning and reach their full potential?
We’re seeking caring, resilient, and motivated Student Support Mentors to work with secondary-aged students (11–16) who have Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and/or Special Educational Needs (SEN).
This role is ideal for someone who wants to make a meaningful impact by supporting students both academically and emotionally, helping them engage with education and develop confidence, independence, and positive coping strategies.
Students you support may experience:
* Anxiety, low mood, or emotional regulation difficulties
* Low confidence or disengagement from learning
* Social or emotional withdrawal
* Challenging or disruptive behaviour
* Difficulties with relationships and communication
Your support will help students feel safe, understood, and ready to learn.
Your Key Responsibilities
* Provide 1:1 and small group support tailored to individual student needs
* Build positive, trusting relationships that encourage engagement and self-belief
* Support students to access the curriculum and stay focused in lessons
* Use calm, consistent strategies to promote emotional regulation and positive behaviour
* Work closely with teachers, SENCOs, and pastoral teams to implement personalised support plans
* Act as a positive role model, promoting resilience, respect, and emotional wellbeing
Who This Role Suits
We welcome applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, including:
* Psychology, Criminology, Education, or Youth Work graduates
* Teaching Assistants, Support Workers, or Youth Workers
* Sports or Music Coaches with experience motivating young people
* Individuals with experience supporting vulnerable children or young people from diverse backgrounds
No formal experience is required — empathy, patience, and a genuine desire to support students are what matter most.
What You’ll Need
* A strong interest in student wellbeing and inclusive education
* A calm, nurturing, and consistent approach
* Good communication and relationship-building skills
* Resilience and emotional intelligence
* A valid DBS (or willingness to apply for one)
What We Offer
* Flexible working options (3–5 days per week)
* Weekly PAYE pay (no umbrella deductions)
* Access to accredited CPD, including Team Teach and SEN training
* £50 referral bonus after 5 completed working days
* Ongoing support from a dedicated consultant
* Opportunities for permanent roles
* A rewarding role where small progress leads to big change
Apply Now
If you believe every student deserves the right support to succeed — no matter the challenges they face — we’d love to hear from you.
Apply today with your most up-to-date CV
emilia.harris@teachingpersonnel.com
0117 239 1557
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
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We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
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