Start Date: 1 September 2026
Reporting to: Operational SENDCo
Role Purpose
The Learning Mentor will support students to access learning, with a particular focus on those in Key Stage 4 who have Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and identified Special Educational Needs (SEN). The role is centred on removing barriers to learning to ensure equity of access to the curriculum, enabling all students to participate, achieve, and make progress in line with their potential. The Learning Mentor will promote independence while ensuring students can engage fully in college life and learning.
Key Responsibilities
Student Support
Provide in-class support for Key Stage 4 students with EHCPs and SEN across a range of subjects. Support students to understand instructions, access learning materials, and remain engaged in lessons. Deliver small group and 1:1 interventions as directed by the Operational SENDCo. Promote independence, resilience, and self-regulation in students. Support students with social, emotional, and mental health needs where required. Take proactive steps to identify and remove barriers to learning, ensuring equitable access for all students. Support students in preparation for GCSEs, coursework, and formal assessments.
EHCP & SEND Provision
Implement strategies and provision outlined in students’ EHCPs and SEND support plans. Assess, monitor, and record student progress against outcomes and targets. Assess and record the impact of interventions to ensure provision is effective and outcome-focused. Provide structured feedback to teachers and the Operational SENDCo on student engagement, barriers, and progress. Contribute to reviews and updates of student support plans where appropriate. Contribute to the planning, delivery, and evaluation of intervention programmes.
Classroom & Curriculum Support
Work closely with teaching staff to ensure inclusive classroom practice. Support students with exam access arrangements. Reinforce learning objectives and support consolidation of knowledge. Use professional judgement to adapt support strategies in response to student need.
Pastoral & Behaviour Support
Build positive, professional relationships with students to support engagement and wellbeing. Support behaviour in line with the college’s behaviour policy. Encourage positive attitudes to learning and attendance. Act as a key adult for identified students where required. Undertake first aid training and act as a First Aider within the college as required.
Communication & Liaison
Work collaboratively with teachers, pastoral staff, and the SEND team. Contribute to communication with parents/carers where appropriate. Maintain accurate, timely records of support, interventions, and student progress using college systems. Attend relevant meetings, including SEND reviews, team briefings, and professional development sessions. Support transition processes for students joining the college, ensuring key information is shared effectively with staff.
General Responsibilities
Safeguard and promote the welfare of our students. Maintain confidentiality at all times and handle sensitive information appropriately. Work in accordance with all college policies and procedures, including safeguarding, behaviour, health and safety, and equality. Engage in ongoing professional development, including First Aid training. Undertake any other duties commensurate with the role as reasonably directed by the Operational SENDCo.
Person Specification
Essential
Experience working with young people with SEND. Understanding of EHCPs and inclusive practice. Ability to build positive relationships with students. Strong communication and teamwork skills. Good organisational skills and ability to maintain accurate records. Flexible, proactive, and resilient approach.
Desirable
Experience supporting Key Stage 4 learners. Knowledge of SEMH needs and strategies. Experience delivering and evaluating intervention programmes. Basic knowledge or interest in engineering-related subjects (desirable but not essential).
Safeguarding
This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check and all safer recruitment requirements
ESW is committed to safeguarding and protecting the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post. This includes checks with past employers, an online check of publicly available information, including social media, and an enhanced disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service.