At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vulnerable pupils to improve attendance and emotional regulation.
- Company: Milk Education, a wellbeing-led and eco-friendly agency.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible working, free CPD courses, and 24/7 consultant support.
- Other info: Join a 5-star rated agency with a nationwide network of schools.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Graduates in Psychology, Social Sciences, or related fields.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Location: Hackney
Pay: £108 per day
Start Date: June 1st or September 2026
Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 3:30 pm, term time only
Milk Education – a wellbeing‑led and eco‑friendly agency – is recruiting passionate graduates to work in a secondary school in Hackney. In this Student Support Mentor role, you will support vulnerable pupils to improve their attendance, regulate their emotions, and re‑engage with their education.
The Role
This role focuses on supporting students at risk of underachievement, persistent absence, or exclusion. These pupils often present with complex needs, including:
- Social, Emotional & Mental Health (SEMH) needs
- Trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
- Anxiety, low mood, anger, or emotionally driven behaviour
- Challenging or disruptive behaviour linked to unmet needs
- SEN or undiagnosed additional needs
- Significant barriers to attendance, engagement, and learning
You will work closely with pastoral teams, SENCOs, and teaching staff to help students regulate emotions, rebuild trust in adults, and access learning in a safe and consistent environment.
Your Experience Will Include
- 1:1 and small‑group mentoring for vulnerable pupils
- Supporting emotional regulation, self‑control, and positive behaviour choices
- Working with students with SEMH needs and behavioural challenges
- Mentoring pupils to improve attendance, punctuality, and engagement
- Implementing personalised behaviour and support strategies
- Using trauma‑informed, restorative, and relational approaches
- Supporting classroom learning where appropriate
- Building trusting relationships with disengaged or high‑risk learners
- Gaining hands‑on exposure to safeguarding, behaviour management, and pastoral care
Why This Role Is Valuable Experience for a Graduate
You will develop:
- A strong understanding of adolescent behaviour and SEMH needs
- Insight into the link between trauma, behaviour, attendance, and attainment
- Practical experience supporting complex emotional and behavioural needs
- Skills in mentoring, motivation, de‑escalation, and relationship‑based practice
Why Join Milk Education?
Training & CPD
- Free CPD including SEMH, Trauma‑Informed Practice, Behaviour & De‑escalation, Safeguarding, and Mental Health Awareness
- Career‑focused development aligned with psychology and mental health pathways
Wellbeing & Support
- Access to a mental health and wellbeing platform (including counselling)
- A dedicated consultant who understands your long‑term career goals
Benefits for You
- Competitive daily pay (£108 per day)
- Fast‑track registration and compliance
- Flexible working opportunities (term time only)
- 5‑star rated agency with 3,000+ reviews
- Free access to Milk Academy (1,000+ discounted CPD courses)
- FREE wellbeing resources and school preparation materials
- 24/7 consultant support
- Work with the UK’s only eco‑friendly education supply agency
- Nationwide network of schools and trusts
Who We’re Looking For
- Graduates in Psychology, Social Sciences, Education, or a related field
- Aspiring Psychologists, Mental Health Practitioners, Youth Workers, or Social Workers
- Calm, empathetic, and resilient individuals
- Graduates passionate about supporting students with SEMH needs
- Those motivated to improve attendance, attainment, and wellbeing
- Candidates confident in building relationships with challenging or disengaged learners
Ready to make a difference? Click ‘Apply Now’ or get in touch to find out more about this rewarding opportunity starting June or September 2026.
Milk Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We are proudly APSCo Compliance+ accredited, reflecting our dedication to the highest standards in safer recruitment. All applicants will be subject to thorough compliance checks in line with DfE, Keeping Children Safe in Education, and APSCo guidelines.
Student Support Mentor – Hackney in London employer: Milk Education
Milk Education is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for graduates passionate about making a difference in the lives of vulnerable learners. With a strong focus on professional development, including free CPD opportunities and access to mental health resources, employees are empowered to grow their skills while contributing to the wellbeing of students in Hackney. The agency's commitment to eco-friendliness and a flexible working schedule further enhances its appeal, making it an ideal choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Student Support Mentor – Hackney in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university alumni, friends, or even social media groups related to education. You never know who might have a lead on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local community events or workshops related to education and mental health. This not only boosts your CV but also helps you meet people who can refer you to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; follow up! After submitting your application through our website, drop a quick email to express your enthusiasm. It shows initiative and keeps you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEMH needs and mentoring. Use role-play with friends to build confidence and refine your responses.
We think you need these skills to ace Student Support Mentor – Hackney in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with SEMH needs and vulnerable learners. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on sharing relevant examples!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting students shine through! We’re looking for candidates who are genuinely passionate about making a difference in the lives of vulnerable pupils, so share why this role excites you.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your experiences and skills. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Milk Education
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Student Support Mentor and the specific needs of SEMH and vulnerable learners. Familiarise yourself with trauma-informed practices and how they can help students regulate their emotions and improve attendance.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, demonstrate your ability to connect with students on an emotional level. Share examples from your experience where you've successfully built trusting relationships with challenging or disengaged learners. This will show that you have the right mindset for the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations involving students with SEMH needs. Think about strategies you could implement to support emotional regulation and positive behaviour choices. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thoughts clearly.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions that show your interest in the role and the school’s approach to supporting vulnerable learners. Inquire about the training opportunities available, especially around SEMH and behaviour management, to highlight your commitment to professional development.
