Independence Support Mentor – Post-16 SEND - Havering

£95 - £100 per day PAYE - Temp to Perm

Date Posted: Monday 12 October 2026

, Ref: 14406

Helping young people prepare for life beyond the classroom.

For some young people, the biggest achievements aren't always academic. They might be catching a bus independently for the first time, learning to manage their money or gaining the confidence to try something they once found difficult.

We're looking for an Independence Support Mentor to join a specialist post-16 SEND setting in Havering, supporting young people aged 16 and over as they develop the skills they'll need for adult life.

Learners have a range of additional needs, including autism, ADHD, speech, language and communication needs, and social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH).

This is an opportunity to do something genuinely rewarding: help young people become more confident in themselves and more prepared for the world beyond education.

What will you be doing?

You'll support learners both within the setting and out in the community, helping them put new skills into practice in real-life situations.

That could involve teaching someone how to plan a journey, supporting them with shopping or cooking, helping them understand money or encouraging them to communicate more confidently with others.

You'll also:

  • Support learners during lessons and practical activities

  • Develop everyday living and independent life skills

  • Accompany young people on public transport and community visits

  • Encourage decision-making, problem-solving and self-confidence

  • Provide support with communication, emotions and behaviour

  • Help learners build routines and prepare for employment or supported living

  • Work alongside teachers, therapists and the wider team

The aim isn't to do everything for the young people you support. It's to give them the guidance they need while allowing them to learn, practise and achieve things for themselves.

Who would suit this role?

You might have experience as a Support Worker, Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant, Youth Worker, Mentor or Care Worker.

Experience in post-16 education would be useful, but it's not essential. We're interested in people who understand the importance of patience, consistency and helping young people develop at their own pace.

You'll need to be approachable, reliable and adaptable, with the confidence to support learners in different environments, including out in the community.

Most importantly, you'll want to help young people gain skills that make a genuine difference to their everyday lives.

Why work with Parker Smith Inclusion?

SEND is all we do. We'll help you find a role that suits your experience and provide support throughout your placement.

  • £95–£100 per day PAYE

  • Long-term work with the opportunity to go permanent

  • No umbrella companies or hidden deductions

  • Personalised job matching

  • CV advice and career guidance

  • Ongoing support from your dedicated consultant

  • 400+ five-star Google reviews from educators

Interested in finding out more?

If you'd like a role where you can help young people build confidence, independence and practical skills for the future, let's have a chat.

Call Danny on 0203 011 4848
Email danny@psinclusion.co.uk

Parker Smith Inclusion is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Relevant enhanced DBS and pre-employment checks will be required.

 

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