At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people at risk of offending and help them re-engage with education.
- Company: Independent Alternative Provision School in Leeds focused on positive change.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, supportive environment, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a blend of practical and therapeutic approaches.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young lives and promote positive pathways.
- Qualifications: Experience with challenging behaviours and a passion for youth support.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 25000 € per year.
We are currently recruiting a Young Offenders Support Assistant to work with young people who are involved with, or at risk of, offending behaviour within a specialist alternative provision in Leeds. This role requires a resilient, proactive, and trauma‑informed individual who can support young people to make safer choices, reduce risk, and re‑engage with education and positive pathways. The provision supports learners who may present with complex behavioural needs and may be known to services such as Youth Offending Teams (YOT), social care, or other external agencies. The setting operates across two sites – a main education provision and an outdoor learning environment – offering a blend of practical, vocational, and therapeutic approaches. The successful candidate must be flexible and willing to work across both.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide targeted support to young people at risk of offending or involved in the youth justice system
- Build positive, professional relationships with learners who may be disengaged from education and authority
- Support behaviour management using restorative and trauma‑informed approaches
- Act as a positive role model, promoting pro‑social behaviour and decision‑making
- Support learners in understanding consequences, choices, and personal responsibility
- Contribute to risk management and intervention strategies
- Work towards individual targets set within EHCPs, behaviour plans, and intervention programmes
- Maintain accurate records relating to behaviour, engagement, and risk factors
- Support emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and life skills development
- Work collaboratively with teaching staff, safeguarding leads, and external agencies (e.g. YOT, social care, police)
- Promote engagement, self‑esteem, and positive future pathways
The Young People
- Aged 11–16
- Present with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs
- May be at risk of or involved in offending behaviour
- May display behaviours linked to trauma, exploitation (CCE), or adverse childhood experiences
- Require clear boundaries, consistency, and strong relational support
Person Specification
- Minimum of 6 months’ experience working with young people with challenging or high‑risk behaviours (professional or personal capacity)
- Experience supporting disengaged or “at risk” young people
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multi‑agency team
- Understanding of safeguarding policies and risk management
Desirable Experience
- Experience working within youth justice, YOT, or intervention‑based roles
- Experience in alternative provision, youth work, or specialist education settings
- Experience supporting young people involved in anti‑social behaviour or offending pathways
- Experience liaising with external agencies and multi‑agency teams
Qualifications (Desirable, not essential)
- Youth Work, Criminology, Psychology, or related qualification
- First Aid qualification
Young Offenders Support Assistant, Leeds employer: Engage Partners Limited
As an Independent Alternative Provision School in Leeds, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where our staff are empowered to make a real difference in the lives of young people. Our commitment to professional development ensures that employees have access to ongoing training and growth opportunities, while our collaborative culture promotes teamwork and shared success in addressing the complex needs of our learners. With a unique blend of educational and therapeutic approaches, working here offers the chance to engage meaningfully with at-risk youth and contribute to their positive pathways.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Young Offenders Support Assistant, Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of youth work or education. Attend local events or workshops where you can meet professionals who might know about job openings. Remember, sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Be ready for an informal chat! When you apply through our website, be prepared for a quick phone call or video chat. This is your chance to show off your personality and passion for supporting young people. Keep it casual but professional!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience! Think of specific examples from your past roles where you’ve made a difference in young people's lives. Whether it’s through behaviour management or building relationships, having real stories to share can set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after applying! A quick email thanking them for considering your application can keep you on their radar. It shows you're genuinely interested and proactive, which is exactly what they’re looking for in a Young Offenders Support Assistant.
We think you need these skills to ace Young Offenders Support Assistant, Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with young people, especially those at risk of offending. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on sharing relevant stories!
Showcase Your Skills:Emphasise your skills in behaviour management and trauma-informed approaches. We’re looking for someone who can build positive relationships, so let us know how you’ve done this in the past!
Be Authentic:We value authenticity, so be yourself in your application. Share your passion for supporting young people and any personal experiences that have shaped your approach to working with them.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Engage Partners Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Young Offenders Support Assistant inside out. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges young people face in the youth justice system and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the job description.
✨Show Your Resilience
This role requires a resilient individual, so be prepared to share examples from your past where you've demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Think about times when you’ve successfully supported someone through a tough situation or helped them make positive choices.
✨Build Rapport
Since building positive relationships is key, think about how you can convey your ability to connect with young people. Share stories that highlight your interpersonal skills and your approach to engaging with those who may be disengaged or at risk.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and understanding of trauma-informed approaches. Prepare by thinking through potential situations you might encounter in the role and how you would handle them effectively.
