Support Staff - Alternative Provision (Primary & Secondary SEMH)
Location: M28, Greater Manchester
Pay: 110- 120 per day (depending on experience)
Job Type: Temporary to Long-Term
Start Date: September 2026
Are you passionate about supporting children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs? Do you have experience working with challenging behaviour and enjoy making a positive impact on the lives of pupils who need additional support?
We are looking for dedicated, resilient, and compassionate Support Staff to join a specialist Alternative Provision in the M28 area. This rewarding role involves supporting both primary and secondary-aged pupils, helping them to engage with education and achieve positive outcomes.
The Role
As a member of the Support Staff team, you will:
- Support pupils with SEMH needs and challenging behaviour.
- Build positive, trusting relationships with children and young people.
- Assist staff in delivering personalised learning and intervention programmes.
- Support pupils both on-site and during educational visits and off-site activities.
- Safely transport pupils to and from school, educational settings, appointments, and off-site activities as required.
- Encourage positive behaviour and emotional regulation using consistent behaviour management strategies.
- Work closely with teaching staff and other professionals to provide the best possible support for each pupil.
Requirements
We are looking for candidates who:
- Have experience working with primary and/or secondary-aged pupils with SEMH needs and challenging behaviour.
- Have transferable skills from youth work, mentoring, residential care, support work, sports coaching, or similar roles.
- Hold a full UK driving licence.
- Have business-use motor insurance or are willing to obtain it before starting the role.
- Are confident transporting pupils safely as part of their daily responsibilities.
- Are patient, resilient, flexible, and able to remain calm in challenging situations.
- Have excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- Hold an Enhanced Child and Adult DBS registered on the Update Service, or be willing to apply for a new DBS.
Desirable Skills
- Previous experience in an Alternative Provision, PRU, or specialist education setting.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed practice and positive behaviour support strategies.
- Team Teach or other de-escalation training (desirable but not essential).
- A good understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures.
If you're committed to helping children and young people overcome barriers to learning and thrive in a supportive environment, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today to secure your September start!