Location: Ad Astra – Alternative Learning Provision
Hours: Tuesday - Fri (9am-3pm)
Salary: £23,500.00 pa/pr
About the role
Ad Astra is seeking a committed and highly organised Pre-16 Session Coordinator to lead and develop our pre-16 provision. Our programme supports young people aged 11–16 with complex needs and barriers to education, using practical and outdoor-based sessions to build confidence, resilience and life skills.
This is a key role within our provision, responsible for coordinating staff, shaping high-quality sessions and ensuring learners remain engaged, supported and safe.
Key responsibilities
- Support and coordinate a small team of pre-16 mentors.
- Work collaboratively with mentors to plan and deliver high-quality sessions aligned to Ad Astra’s four core values:
communication skills, self-belief, resilience and collaborative working.
- Model consistently high standards of professional conduct, engagement and interaction with learners.
- Monitor and track learner engagement and participation.
- Organise and coordinate external visits, activities and enrichment opportunities.
- Manage and monitor a designated session and activities budget.
- Contribute to learners’ half-termly reports and progress summaries.
- Work closely with the wider team to ensure a trauma-informed, safe and supportive learning environment.
Essential criteria
- Qualified to Level 4 Teaching Assistant (TA) standard or hold a recognised teaching qualification.
- Proven experience of planning and delivering sessional or programme-based learning.
- Demonstrable resilience and the ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations.
- A positive sense of humour and the ability to build strong, respectful relationships with young people.
- A clear understanding of trauma-informed approaches when working with vulnerable learners.
Desirable criteria
- Experience of working with the AQA Unit Award / Achievement Award Scheme.
- Experience of working with hard-to-reach learners and young people who may present with challenging behaviour.
- Strong knowledge of local opportunities, activities and community links for young people.
- Experience and confidence using de-escalation strategies in practice.
Safeguarding
Ad Astra is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and appropriate pre-employment checks.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: From £23,500.00 per year
Expected hours: 24.0 per week
Benefits:
- Free parking
- Sick pay
- Store discount
Education:
- Certificate of Higher Education (required)
Licence/Certification:
- teaching qualification level 4 (required)
Work Location: In person
