Job Title: Unqualified Teacher / Learning Mentor – Alternative Provision
Covered Services is recruiting on behalf of a small Alternative Provision seeking a motivated, resilient, and committed Unqualified Teacher / Learning Mentor to support young people with SEND and SEMH needs.
This role would suit somebody looking to build a long-term career in education, youth work, mentoring, SEND support, or behaviour support. We are looking for hardworking individuals who genuinely care about improving outcomes for young people and helping them thrive both academically and personally.
About the Role
You will be responsible for teaching and supporting small groups of learners, with classes of up to 5 students. This is not a mainstream school environment and offers a more relationship-based and personalised approach to learning.
The role will mainly involve delivering Maths and English sessions to KS3 and KS4 learners. Candidates with additional practical skills, hobbies, vocational experience, sports, fitness, music, creative skills, or enrichment activities are highly encouraged to apply, as we value engaging and varied learning experiences.
This role requires somebody who can build positive relationships with young people while maintaining clear boundaries and high expectations.
Main Responsibilities:
- Deliver Maths and English sessions to small groups
- Support learners with SEND and SEMH needs
- Manage behaviour positively and professionally
- Build strong and consistent relationships with students
- Support students academically, socially, and emotionally
- Adapt learning to meet individual learner needs
- Record student progress and complete basic educational paperwork
- Support enrichment activities and wider provision activities
- Work collaboratively with staff and external professionals where required
- Maintain safeguarding and professional standards at all times
What the Role Is Like
This is very different from mainstream teaching. Administrative workload is significantly lower than in mainstream schools; however, staff are still expected to complete required educational documentation, maintain professionalism, and contribute positively to the team.
Learners within the provision may have:
- SEND needs
- SEMH difficulties
- Gaps in education
- Behaviour challenges
- Low confidence or engagement in learning
Staff must be patient, calm, resilient, and consistent in their approach.
We are looking for somebody who can hit the ground running and confidently manage a small classroom environment with support from the wider team when needed.
Requirements:
- Experience working with young people
- Ideally some experience or training working with SEND learners
- Good curriculum knowledge, particularly Maths and English
- Ability to engage and motivate young people
- Strong communication and behaviour management skills
- Professional, reliable, and hardworking attitude
- Genuine passion for supporting young people
- Ability to use initiative and work independently
Safeguarding knowledge is desirable; however, training can be provided for the right candidate.
General Expectations:
- Be proactive and able to use your own initiative
- Be punctual, organised, and dependable
- Maintain professional conduct and boundaries
- Be prepared to support the wider team where required
- Follow safeguarding and behaviour procedures consistently
- Be adaptable within a fast-paced Alternative Provision environment
- Be prepared for both classroom teaching and pastoral support responsibilities
Please note:
This role would not suit somebody requiring constant supervision or extensive day-to-day guidance. Due to the nature of the provision, we require staff who are confident, motivated, and able to adapt quickly to the role.
Safeguarding:
- All roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check and safer recruitment procedures.
- The provision follows KCSIE 2025 (Keeping Children Safe in Education) guidance.
- Staff are expected to uphold safeguarding responsibilities and professional standards at all times.
Contract & Benefits:
- 40-hour-per-week contract
- Term-time working
- 40 weeks paid per year
- 38 academic teaching weeks
- 1 week allocated for INSET/training
- 1 preparation/catch-up week for planning and student preparation
- Approximately 12 weeks off throughout the year
Additional Opportunities:
- Potential to gain further qualifications and training
- Opportunities to upskill within SEND and education
- Potential extra hours available
- Holiday provision work available if interested
- Supportive team environment with opportunities for progression
This is an excellent opportunity for somebody wanting to make a genuine difference in young people’s lives while building experience within education and Alternative Provision settings.
Pay: £23,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person