Additional Needs Teaching Assistant – Durham
Pastoral Support Mentor – SEND
Are you passionate about supporting young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)? Do you have the patience, empathy and commitment to help pupils overcome barriers to learning and achieve their full potential?
We are currently recruiting for a dedicated Pastoral Support Mentor to join a specialist SEND provision in Durham. This is a rewarding opportunity to support pupils who require consistent pastoral guidance, personalised support and positive role modelling to help them engage confidently with their education.
About the School
This specialist SEND setting supports young people with a wide range of additional needs, including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), ADHD, communication and interaction needs, learning difficulties, and sensory needs. Many pupils require additional support to access learning and develop social, emotional and independence skills.
The school provides a structured, inclusive and supportive environment where individual needs are recognised and carefully supported. With smaller class sizes and a high staff-to-student ratio, staff are able to build strong relationships with pupils and provide tailored support both inside and outside the classroom.
A strong pastoral and safeguarding framework ensures pupils feel safe, understood and supported throughout the school day. Staff work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, therapists and external professionals to develop personalised support strategies that help pupils thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
The leadership team promotes a nurturing and inclusive approach, focusing on developing communication, confidence, independence and positive engagement with learning.
The Role
As a Pastoral Support Mentor, you will:
1. Provide 1:1 and small-group pastoral and wellbeing support
2. Support pupils with SEND needs to access learning and develop independence
3. Act as a positive role model, encouraging confidence and self-esteem
4. Support pupils during lessons, transitions and unstructured times
5. Help implement individual education and support plan
6. Assist pupils with communication, emotional regulation and social interaction
7. Work closely with teaching staff, SENCO and support teams
8. Monitor pupil wellbeing, engagement and progress
The Ideal Candidate Will
9. Have experience working with young people with SEND
10. Be patient, empathetic and supportive
11. Have a good understanding of additional learning needs such as ASC, ADHD or communication needs
12. Be confident supporting pupils who may require adapted learning approaches
13. Have strong safeguarding awareness and understanding of child protection procedures
14. Be passionate about helping pupils build confidence, independence and engagement in education
Experience in SEND schools, specialist provisions, youth work, care settings, support work or mentoring roles would be highly beneficial.
Training in areas such as autism support, behaviour strategies or communication approaches is desirable but not essential.
Call: 0191 486 2500
Email: nicole.donnelly@,milk-education.co.uk
INNEW