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, and 24/7 consultant support.
- Other info: Join a supportive team focused on mental health and wellbeing.
- 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 21600 - 21600 £ 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
- 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 employer: Milk Education
Milk Education is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing of both its staff and students, offering a supportive work culture where graduates can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable learners. With access to extensive training and professional development opportunities, including free CPD courses and a dedicated consultant for career guidance, employees are empowered to grow in their roles. Located in Hackney, this eco-friendly agency not only provides competitive pay but also fosters a collaborative environment that values mental health and personal development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Student Support Mentor – Hackney
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education or related fields. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its values. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in supporting vulnerable learners and making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to SEMH needs and behaviour management. We want you to feel confident and ready to showcase your skills!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and you’re considered for this rewarding role. Let’s get you started on this journey!
We think you need these skills to ace Student Support Mentor – Hackney
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting vulnerable learners shine through. We want to see why you’re passionate about making a difference in students' lives, especially those with SEMH needs.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have, whether it’s mentoring, working with children, or understanding emotional and behavioural challenges. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role!
Be Authentic:Don’t be afraid to be yourself! Share your personal journey and what led you to apply for this role. Authenticity helps us connect with you on a deeper level, which is super important in this line of work.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and 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 relationships with challenging or disengaged learners, highlighting your calm and empathetic approach.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-life situations. Think about how you would handle a student exhibiting challenging behaviour or how you would support a pupil struggling with anxiety. Be ready to discuss your strategies and thought processes.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask questions that show your genuine interest in the role and the school environment. Inquire about the support systems in place for mentors, the training opportunities available, and how the school fosters a positive atmosphere for both staff and students.
