Behaviour Support Assistant​/Behaviour Mentor

Behaviour Support Assistant / Behaviour Mentor – SEND & SEMH

Location:

Derby and surrounding areas Job Type: Temporary, long-term and potential temp-to-perm

Hours:

Typically Monday–Friday, 8:30am–3:30pm

Employment Type:

Full-time preferred, with part-time opportunities available where vacancies permit About the Role Enlightenment Education is recruiting patient, resilient and compassionate Behaviour Support Assistants and Behaviour Mentors to work across primary and secondary schools in Derby and the surrounding areas. We work with mainstream schools, specialist SEND provisions and SEMH settings, supporting children and young people who may need additional help with their behaviour, emotional regulation, engagement and access to education.

These roles are ideal for people who understand that behaviour can be a form of communication and who can remain calm, consistent and supportive when faced with challenging situations. We have opportunities for candidates interested in both primary-aged and secondary-aged pupils, whether working on a one-to-one basis, supporting small groups or within a specialist SEND or SEMH provision. Many of our vacancies offer longer-term placements, with the potential for temporary-to-permanent employment depending on the school and role.

Key Responsibilities Depending on the setting, your responsibilities may include:
Providing one-to-one behavioural and emotional support to pupils. Supporting children and young people with social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH). Working with pupils who display challenging behaviour, emotional dysregulation or difficulties engaging with learning. Supporting pupils with autism, ADHD and other additional needs. Helping pupils manage their emotions, develop coping strategies and build positive relationships. Implementing behaviour support strategies and following individual support plans.

Supporting pupils within SEND hubs, specialist provisions and alternative learning environments. Encouraging positive behaviour, engagement, independence and successful participation in education. Working closely with teachers, pastoral teams, SENCOs and other professionals to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment.

The Ideal Candidate We are looking for individuals who can build trust with pupils while maintaining appropriate boundaries and consistency. You may have experience as a Behaviour Mentor, Behaviour Support Worker, Teaching Assistant, Youth Worker, Residential Support Worker, SEMH Practitioner or within another relevant care or support role. Experience supporting children or young people with challenging behaviour, trauma-related needs, emotional regulation difficulties or additional learning needs would be beneficial.

Most importantly, you will demonstrate: A calm, patient and consistent approach, particularly in challenging situations. Resilience and the ability to remain professional under pressure. Confidence establishing positive relationships and maintaining clear boundaries. An understanding of safeguarding and pupil wellbeing. Strong communication and teamwork skills. A genuine commitment to helping children and young people overcome barriers to learning. Relevant experience is desirable, and candidates with transferable skills from care, youth work, residential settings or similar environments are encouraged to apply.

Working Hours and Opportunities Most school-based roles operate during the school day, typically 8:30am–3:30pm, Monday to Friday . We are particularly interested in candidates seeking full-time, long-term opportunities. Part-time positions will also be considered where available. Our vacancies range across primary and secondary education, including mainstream schools with additional-needs…