Job description
Pastoral Support Assistant (Alternative Provision – SEMH)
Location: Middlesbrough
Salary: £90–£120 per day (dependent on experience)
Start Date: September 2026
Contract Type: Full-Time / Flexible
A supportive Alternative Provision in Middlesbrough is seeking a dedicated Pastoral Support Assistant to join their team. This Pastoral Support Assistant role is ideal for someone with experience supporting pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and behaviours that are challenging. If you are passionate about helping young people overcome barriers to learning and achieve positive outcomes, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
The successful Pastoral Support Assistant will work closely with teaching staff and the pastoral team to provide tailored support for pupils who require additional emotional and behavioural guidance. As a Pastoral Support Assistant, you will build positive relationships with pupils, promote engagement and help create a safe, structured and nurturing learning environment.
Key Responsibilities of the Pastoral Support Assistant:
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Providing 1:1 and small group support to pupils with SEMH needs.
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Supporting pupils who display behaviours that are challenging.
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Promoting positive behaviour and emotional regulation using de-escalation strategies.
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Building trusting and professional relationships with pupils.
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Supporting pupils to overcome barriers to learning and improve attendance and engagement.
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Working alongside teachers, pastoral staff and external professionals to implement support plans.
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Encouraging confidence, resilience, independence and positive decision-making.
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Helping to maintain a safe, supportive and inclusive Alternative Provision environment.
The Ideal Pastoral Support Assistant Will:
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Have previous experience working with children or young people with SEMH needs.
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Have experience supporting pupils with behaviours that are challenging.
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Be patient, resilient and confident in managing challenging situations.
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Have excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
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Hold Team Teach training (desirable but not essential).
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Hold an enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or be willing to apply).
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Have a fully checkable work history.
Benefits:
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Dedicated consultant support throughout your career journey.
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Flexible working opportunities to suit your availability.
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Opportunities to work within supportive Alternative Provisions and specialist settings.
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Competitive daily rates of pay.
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Ongoing support and guidance from experienced education consultants.
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Access to training courses to enhance knowledge and skills.
This Pastoral Support Assistant role requires a strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection. All successful applicants must satisfy safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS registered on the Update Service.
To apply for this Pastoral Support Assistant role in Middlesbrough, please submit your up-to-date CV and a consultant will be in touch.
Referral Bonus:
We are currently offering £100 for the successful referral of Teachers or Teaching Assistants.