Sports & Engagement Mentor in Cheshunt

Hours: 28 hours per week, Term-Time Only, 45 weeks per year. Working hours: Mon, Wed: 9:00am – 3:30pm and Tue & Thu: 9:00am – 6:00pm (30 min unpaid break Mon and Wed, 1-hour unpaid break Tue and Thur). Due to the nature of our provision, some flexibility is required to accommodate increased learner demand and timetable adjustments when necessary. We welcome candidates who can offer some flexibility during peak periods.

EM Tuition is a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing specialised educational support for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Our team of dedicated tutors are experienced in SEN and employ innovative methods to engage and inspire each student. We are guided by core values such as equality, honesty, quality, growth mindset, passion, and a positive attitude. Join us in our mission to enhance the lives of children with SEN both academically and personally.

The Sports & Engagement Mentor plays a key frontline role within EM Tuition's Alternative Provision setting. This role uses sport, physical activity, and positive relationships as primary tools to engage learners who present with SEN, SEMH, behavioural needs, or barriers to mainstream education. The post holder will combine active session support with strong pastoral mentoring to promote emotional regulation, resilience, confidence, and positive behaviour. The role requires energy, consistency, and a trauma-informed approach to supporting vulnerable young people.

Key responsibilities and objectives of the job are:

• Sports & Physical Engagement Delivery
  • Support and co-deliver structured sports and fitness sessions (e.g., circuits, team games, boot camps, functional training).
  • Encourage full participation and model effort, teamwork, and positive conduct.
  • Adapt activities to meet varied learner needs and abilities.
  • Ensure safe use of equipment and adherence to health & safety protocols.
  • Promote physical wellbeing as a tool for emotional regulation and behaviour improvement.
  • Assist in planning engaging physical activities that build confidence and resilience.
  • Build strong, consistent relationships with learners.
  • Act as a positive role model through professional conduct and active participation.
  • Provide 1:1 and small group mentoring to support emotional regulation and personal development.
  • Encourage attendance, punctuality, and engagement in learning activities.
  • Support learners during transitions between sessions and break times.
• Behaviour & Emotional Support
  • Promote positive behaviour through restorative and trauma-informed approaches.
  • Recognise early signs of dysregulation and apply de-escalation strategies.
  • Maintain calm, consistent responses to challenging behaviours.
  • Support implementation of individual behaviour plans and EHCP strategies.
  • Record behavioural incidents in line with centre procedures.
• Safeguarding & Student Welfare
  • Maintain vigilance regarding safeguarding and student wellbeing.
  • Report concerns promptly and accurately in line with safeguarding policy.
  • Support the creation of a safe, inclusive, and structured environment.
  • Contribute to risk assessments where required.
  • Assist with daily set-up and organisation of learning and activity spaces.
  • Maintain clean, safe, and organised sports and learning areas.
  • Work collaboratively with tutors, Centre Coordinators, and leadership staff.
  • Attend briefings, training, and team meetings.
  • Share observations regarding learner progress and engagement.
  • Assist with daily timetables, ensuring tutors and students are allocated to appropriate spaces.
  • Help maintain accurate records of attendance, incident logs, parent communications, and progress reviews.
  • Support the Centre Lead/Coordinator in acting as a point of contact for visitors, learners, parents, and staff.
  • Ensure all teaching and learning resources (whiteboards, stationery, digital tools) are stocked and functioning.

Person Specification

Essential Experience & Skills

• Experience working with children or young people in education, youth work, coaching, or similar settings.
• Confidence supporting or delivering sports/physical activity.
• Understanding of SEN, SEMH, or behavioural needs.
• Ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Physically able to actively participate in sports sessions.

Desirable Qualifications

• Level 2 or 3 qualification in Coaching, Sport, Education, Youth Work, or Health & Social Care.
• First Aid certification (including paediatric or mental health first aid).
• Experience within Alternative Provision, PRU, or SEND settings.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practice or behaviour frameworks.

What We Offer

• Professional development and training in trauma-informed and behaviour-led practice.
• Opportunity to make a meaningful difference to vulnerable young people.
• A supportive and collaborative team culture.
• Clear progression pathways within Alternative Provision.
• Company pension scheme.
• 32 days holiday (inclusive of Bank Holidays), increasing with service.
• Local gym membership after 3 months.

Our Company is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. The successful candidates will be required to declare any convictions, cautions, reprimands or final warnings which would not be filtered in line with current guidance. A criminal record will only be taken into account where the conviction is relevant to the position being applied for, and will not necessarily block candidates from employment. Any decision will depend on the precise nature of the work and the circumstances and background to the offence.

EM Tuition is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We have a working environment where we value and respect every individual's unique contribution, enabling all of our employees to thrive and achieve their full potential. EM Tuition has a diverse workforce that is representative at all job levels.