At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with SEMH needs.
- Company: Leader Education partners with schools across Leeds, Wakefield, and Pontefract.
- Benefits: Weekly pay, free Team Teach training, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Full support and training provided for the right candidates.
- Why this job: Make a genuine difference in the lives of vulnerable young people.
- Qualifications: Experience in youth work, care, or mental health support is preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Behaviour Mentor / Mental Health Support Assistant Leeds, Wakefield & Pontefract
Full-Time | Long-Term Opportunity | September Starts Available
Help Young People Overcome Barriers and Reach Their Potential
Are you passionate about supporting young people with social, emotional and mental health needs? Do you have experience in youth work, care, residential support, coaching, mental health support, or working with vulnerable young people? Leader Education is recruiting Behaviour Mentors and Mental Health Support Assistants to work within supportive mainstream and specialist schools across Leeds, Wakefield and Pontefract. This is a highly rewarding role where you'll have the opportunity to make a genuine difference to the lives of children and young people who require additional support to engage in education, regulate their emotions, and build confidence both inside and outside the classroom.
The Role
As a Behaviour Mentor, you'll work closely with pupils who may experience:
- Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs
- Anxiety and emotional regulation difficulties
- Behavioural challenges
- Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
- ADHD
- Communication and interaction needs
- Trauma and attachment-related needs
You will play a key role in helping pupils feel safe, supported and ready to learn.
Key Responsibilities
- Providing 1:1, small-group and classroom-based support
- Building positive, trusting relationships with pupils
- Supporting emotional regulation and positive behaviour strategies
- Helping pupils engage with learning and achieve their individual goals
- Encouraging independence, resilience and self-confidence
- Supporting pupils' mental health and overall well-being
- Working collaboratively with teachers, pastoral teams, SENCOs and external professionals
- Contributing to a safe, structured and nurturing school environment
- Adapting your approach to meet the individual needs of each pupil
Who We're Looking For
- Patient, resilient and empathetic
- Passionate about supporting young people
- Confident building positive relationships and maintaining boundaries
- Calm under pressure and able to respond to challenging situations professionally
- Committed to making a long‑term impact in a school setting
We Welcome Applications From
- Behaviour Mentors
- Youth Workers
- Residential Childcare Workers
- Support Workers
- Mental Health Support Workers
- Care Workers
- Sports Coaches
- Psychology Graduates
- Health & Social Care Professionals
- Prison and Rehabilitation Staff
- Creative Arts Practitioners
- Armed Forces and Cadet Instructors
Previous school experience is desirable but not essential. Full support and training will be provided for the right candidates.
Why Work with Leader Education
- Weekly pay through compliant umbrella payroll
- Free Team Teach and SEND‑specific training
- Ongoing professional development opportunities
- Dedicated support from an experienced education consultant
- Long‑term, temporary placements with temp‑to‑perm opportunities
- Full AWR compliance, ensuring fair pay and working conditions
- Opportunities to gain valuable experience within SEND, SEMH and alternative provision settings
About Leader Education
Leader Education partners with inclusive mainstream schools, specialist SEND provisions and alternative education settings across West Yorkshire. We are committed to connecting exceptional people with rewarding opportunities that positively impact the lives of children and young people. All roles are subject to safer recruitment and compliance checks. An Enhanced Child & Adult Workforce DBS is required. If you do not currently hold one, Leader Education can support you with the application process.
If you're looking for a role where you can build meaningful relationships, support young people's mental health, and make a lasting difference every day, we'd love to hear from you.
SEMH Behaviour Mentor - Leeds employer: Leader Education
Leader Education is dedicated to connecting exceptional individuals with rewarding roles in inclusive schools. Located in West Yorkshire, they offer free training and ongoing support to ensure impactful contributions to children's lives. Their commitment to safer recruitment ensures a secure environment for all staff and students.
