Pupil Support Worker - Alternative Provision

Pupil Support Worker - Alternative Provision • Accrington, Lancashire (BB5) • September 2026 • Full-time, Temporary-to-Permanent • Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM (Term-time only) • £98.89 - £115.89 per day (dependent on experience) About the Role Are you looking for a rewarding role where you can make a genuine difference in the lives of vulnerable young people? We are seeking a dedicated and resilient Pupil Support Worker to join a thriving Alternative Provision (AP) in the Accrington area. Starting this September, this is a full-time, 5-day-a-week position supporting students aged 11-16 who have been excluded from, or are struggling to access, mainstream education. Many of our pupils have Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, ADHD, or Autism (ASD). Your primary focus will be to break down barriers to learning, build trust, and help students successfully re-engage with their education. Key Responsibilities • Provide 1:1 and Small Group Support: Assist pupils both inside and outside the classroom, tailoring your approach to meet their individual learning and emotional needs. • Behaviour Mentoring & De-escalation: Implement positive behaviour strategies and restorative practices to support students when they feel dysregulated. • Build Trusting Relationships: Serve as a positive role model, helping pupils build self-esteem, resilience, and essential life skills. • Collaborate with Staff: Work closely with the Class Teachers, SENDCo, and external support services to implement Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and EHCP targets. • Monitor Progress: Track and record student engagement and behavioural milestones to provide feedback to the leadership team and parents/carers. What We Are Looking For (Person Specification) • Experience: Previous experience working with children or young people is essential. Experience within an Alternative Provision, PRU (Pupil Referral Unit), SEN school, youth work, or residential care is highly desirable. • Character: A calm, resilient, and empathetic nature. You must be able to remain composed in challenging situations and possess strong de-escalation skills. • Skills: Excellent communication skills, active listening, and the ability to build rapport with disaffected or vulnerable youth. • Qualifications: A Level 2 or 3 qualification in Teaching and Learning, Youth Work, or Health and Social Care is advantageous, but a passionate and positive attitude is prioritised. • Requirements: An enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service (or a willingness to apply for one) is mandatory. Benefits of Working With Us • Consistent Work: Secure, guaranteed income with a stable Monday-to-Friday schedule. • Professional Development: Access to free specialist training, including Team Teach (positive handling) and trauma-informed practice. • Rewarding Environment: Work within a supportive, close-knit team dedicated to pupil well-being. • Career Progression: Excellent opportunities to transition into a permanent school contract. How to Apply If you are passionate about supporting young people in Accrington and are ready for a fresh challenge this September, we want to hear from you. Please click 'Apply Now' to submit your updated CV or contact Christina directly at or for an informal discussion about this role.