ESOL Inclusion Mentor in Sunderland

Sunderland College has been delivering highly successful courses for more than 20 years and is one of the largest providers of post-16 education in the North East with approximately 14,300 students. The College aims to develop and positively shape lives, communities, and the economy through teaching, learning and development of skills. Our students consistently achieve outstanding results and Sunderland College has been ranked in the top 25% in the country for student achievement rates.

As an employer, we prioritise cultivating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, where our staff can thrive and grow. We recognise that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are deeply committed to investing in their professional development and overall wellbeing.

We are looking for a compassionate, adaptable and inclusive individual who is passionate about supporting ESOL learners with SEND, building positive relationships with learners from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and making a positive difference by removing barriers to learning, empowering learners to develop confidence and independence, and helping them achieve their potential. The successful candidate will demonstrate our College values of Courage, Authenticity, Respect and Excellence through their commitment to inclusive practice, collaboration and continuous improvement.

This is an exciting opportunity to join our growing ESOL provision, supporting learners with SEND and additional learning needs by providing personalised classroom support, adapting resources, promoting independence and confidence, and working collaboratively with ESOL tutors, Learning Support colleagues and external professionals to remove barriers, improve learner outcomes and support successful progression.

• Provide personalised learning support to ESOL learners with SEND, enabling them to participate fully in College life and achieve their learning goals.
• Adapt learning resources and communication strategies to meet individual English language and additional learning needs.
• Work collaboratively with ESOL tutors, Learning Support colleagues and external professionals to implement and review individual support plans.
• Promote learner independence, confidence, wellbeing and self-advocacy while helping remove barriers to learning.
• Monitor learner progress, attendance and engagement, escalating concerns and referring learners to appropriate support services where required.
• Support learners during educational visits, enrichment activities and transitions while maintaining high standards of safeguarding, equality and inclusion.

Qualifications:

• GCSE English and Maths (Grade 4/C or Level 2 equivalent).
• Level 2 ESOL.
• Level 2 qualification in Learning Support, Teaching Assistant, Care, Youth Work, Mentoring or an equivalent relevant qualification.
• Experience supporting learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) or additional learning needs.
• Experience working with ESOL and multilingual learners, adapting support to meet individual language and learning needs.
• Experience supporting learners from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, demonstrating cultural awareness and inclusive practice.
• Understanding of barriers to learning and strategies that promote learner engagement, independence and achievement.
• Ability to build positive relationships with learners, colleagues and external professionals.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate effectively using a range of approaches.
• Commitment to safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Join EPNE and you’ll be part of a culture that prioritises your development and wellbeing, which is why all employees receive an extensive benefits package. Enjoy a generous holiday allowance ranging between 35-48 days per year, plus public holidays. Generous family leave and flexible working options (dependent on role). Access to my Lifestyle benefits platform providing retail discounts and more. We offer dental, eye care & health cash plans. Extensive wellbeing support through a digital Wellbeing Hub that offers a broad range of support for physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. Free parking on most campuses.

At Education Partnership North East (EPNE), we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences. We know that diverse perspectives strengthen our teams to enhance the education and support we provide to our learners and communities. We recognise that talented individuals may not always follow a traditional career path and may hesitate to apply unless they meet every requirement. If you are excited about the role and believe you can make a positive contribution, we encourage you to apply.

As a Disability Confident Employer and Armed Forces Covenant Member, and with Ofsted Outstanding status across all campuses, we are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive, and high-performing environment where everyone can thrive. Due to the nature of this post, you will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure Check. We believe in equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to PREVENT and safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.