At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vulnerable students to improve attendance and emotional regulation.
- Company: Milk Education, a wellbeing-focused and eco-friendly agency.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible term-time work, and free professional development.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and access a wealth of resources for your career growth.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in psychology and make a real difference in students' lives.
- Qualifications: Graduates in Sociology, Psychology, or related fields with a passion for supporting others.
The predicted salary is between 21600 - 21600 £ per year.
Student Support Mentor – SEMH & Vulnerable Learners (Secondary School)
Pay: £108 per day
Location: Maidenhead
Start Dates: June & September 2026
Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 3:30 pm, term time only
Are you a Sociology or Social Science graduate looking to apply your understanding of social structures, inequality, and human behaviour in a real-world setting? Do you want to explore how societal factors impact young people’s education and wellbeing? Milk Education, a wellbeing-led and eco-friendly agency, is recruiting passionate graduates to work in a secondary school in Maidenhead. 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: Student Support Mentor – Sociology Graduate (Secondary)
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
This role is an excellent foundation for graduates considering careers in Psychology, Youth Justice, Social Work, Mental Health, Educational Psychology, Clinical Psychology, or Therapy.
Why This Role Is Valuable Experience for a Sociology Graduate
You will develop:
- A strong understanding of adolescent behaviour and SEMH needs
- Insight into the link between social inequality, trauma, behaviour, and educational outcomes
- 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, social work, 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:
- Sociology, Psychology, Criminology, or Social Science graduates
- Aspiring Psychologists, Social Workers, Mental Health Practitioners, or Youth 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 in Maidenhead? Click ‘Apply Now’ or get in touch to find out more about this rewarding opportunity starting in June or September 2026.
Graduate – Aspiring Psychologist – Maidenhead – Starting June & September 2026! employer: Milk Education
Milk Education is an exceptional employer for aspiring psychologists and social science graduates, offering a supportive work culture focused on wellbeing and professional development. With access to free CPD training, a dedicated consultant for career guidance, and a commitment to eco-friendly practices, employees can thrive in a nurturing environment while making a meaningful impact on vulnerable learners in Maidenhead. The role provides invaluable experience in mentoring and emotional support, paving the way for future careers in psychology and social work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate – Aspiring Psychologist – Maidenhead – Starting June & September 2026!
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university alumni, join relevant groups on social media, and attend local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your interview skills! Mock interviews with friends or mentors can help you feel more confident. Focus on articulating how your background in sociology or social sciences makes you a great fit for supporting vulnerable learners.
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your approach! When you apply through our website, make sure to highlight your passion for working with SEMH needs and how your experiences align with the role. Personal touches can really make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in their minds. Mention something specific from your conversation to show your genuine interest in the role and the school.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate – Aspiring Psychologist – Maidenhead – Starting June & September 2026!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Student Support Mentor role. Highlight any relevant coursework or volunteer work that showcases your understanding of SEMH needs and your ability to support vulnerable learners.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for supporting students and how your background in Sociology or Social Science makes you a great fit for this role. Be sure to mention specific experiences that demonstrate your empathy and resilience.
Showcase Relevant Experience:If you've had any hands-on experience working with young people, whether through internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs, make sure to include that in your application. We want to see how you've engaged with students and supported their emotional and educational needs.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you can easily track your progress with us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Milk Education
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your understanding of social structures, inequality, and human behaviour. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by vulnerable learners, especially those with SEMH needs. This will show that you're not just a graduate, but someone who genuinely understands the role.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for supporting students shine through. Share any relevant experiences, whether it's volunteering, mentoring, or even personal stories that highlight your commitment to making a difference in young people's lives.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations involving students with emotional or behavioural challenges. Think about trauma-informed approaches and be ready to discuss strategies for building trust and rapport with disengaged learners.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the training opportunities available, the support systems in place for mentors, or how the school measures success in helping vulnerable pupils. This shows you're serious about the role and eager to learn.
