Youth Mentor / Behaviour Support Assistant – Supporting At-Risk Young People
Merton, South West London | £95 – £100 per day | PAYE only | Full-time | Temp to Permanent | ASAP Start
Do you believe that a consistent, trusting relationship can help a young person change direction and thrive?
A specialist alternative provision in Merton is looking for a Youth Mentor / Behaviour Support Assistant to join their dedicated team supporting young people aged 11–16 who have faced significant challenges — including exposure to trauma, risk of gang involvement, and unmet social, emotional, and mental health needs (SEMH).
This role is not just about managing behaviour — it’s about building trust, understanding the story behind the behaviour, and helping young people feel safe, valued, and capable of change.
About the Setting
This is a nurturing, trauma-informed school that prioritises relationships over reactions. Staff are trained to recognise and respond to trauma, not to punish it. You’ll be joining a highly supportive team within a respected Trust that invests in emotional wellbeing, restorative practice, and professional growth.
Your Role as a Youth Mentor / Behaviour Support Assistant
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Support secondary-aged students with SEMH, trauma, and complex behavioural needs
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Build positive, consistent relationships that promote trust and emotional regulation
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Provide 1:1 and small group interventions around self-esteem, resilience, and decision-making
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De-escalate challenging situations using trauma-informed and restorative approaches
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Encourage positive choices and engagement in learning
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Work collaboratively with teachers, pastoral leads, and external professionals (e.g., youth workers, therapists, social care)
You’ll Bring
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Experience working with young people at risk of exclusion, offending, or gang involvement
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A calm, compassionate, and non-judgemental approach
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Strong emotional resilience and commitment to understanding behaviour as communication
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Experience in youth work, mentoring, SEMH, or alternative provision (desirable but not essential)
Key Details
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Start date: ASAP / November
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Location: Merton, South West London (excellent transport links + free parking)
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Pay: £95 – £100 per day (experience-dependent), PAYE only
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Contract: Full-time, Temp to Perm
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Training: Ongoing CPD and Trust-wide trauma-informed practice training provided
This role would suit:
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Youth Mentor or Youth Worker
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Behaviour Support Assistant or SEMH Teaching Assistant
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Outreach or Pastoral Support Worker
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Psychology graduate with practical experience in trauma or behaviour support
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Anyone passionate about helping young people rebuild confidence and make positive choices
Why work with Parker Smith Inclusion
At Parker Smith Inclusion, we specialise in SEND and Alternative Provision recruitment. With over 350 five-star reviews, we’re trusted by schools and professionals alike to connect people who genuinely care about making a difference.
Benefits of working with us:
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Personalised school matches based on your skills and values
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Access to exclusive, specialist settings
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Transparent PAYE pay – no umbrella deductions
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Honest insight into school culture and leadership
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Full application and interview support
Ready to make a real difference?
If this sounds like your next step, contact Jamie Martinez at Parker Smith Inclusion or submit your CV today.