At a Glance
- Tasks: Supervise classes and support vulnerable students with SEMH needs.
- Company: Specialist SEMH school in Wakefield focused on transforming young lives.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, ongoing training, and a supportive leadership team.
- Other info: Ideal for those considering careers in teaching, psychology, or social work.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEMH or vulnerable youth; strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 26000 £ per year.
Cover Supervisor – SEMH School (Alternative Provision)
Location: Wakefield WF2 (commutable from Leeds, Pontefract, Castleford, Barnsley & surrounding areas)
Pay: £100 – £125 per day
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30am–3:30pm
Start Date: ASAP
Are you confident managing behaviour and passionate about supporting vulnerable young people? We are recruiting a Cover Supervisor for a specialist SEMH school in Wakefield, supporting students aged 7–15 who have been permanently excluded or are at risk of exclusion from mainstream education. This is a highly rewarding opportunity for someone who can build positive relationships, provide consistency, and help students re-engage with education in a structured and supportive environment.
About this role
In this role, you will supervise classes during teacher absences and support students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, behavioural challenges, and additional learning needs. The school provides a nurturing and therapeutic environment focused on:
- Rebuilding confidence and engagement in learning
- Supporting emotional regulation and behaviour
- Creating structure, routine, and positive relationships
- Helping students develop resilience, social skills, and independence
- Supporting pupils who may have experienced trauma or adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)
What You’ll Be Doing
- Supervising classes using pre-planned work across KS1–KS4
- Managing challenging behaviour using positive behaviour strategies
- Building strong relationships with students to encourage engagement
- Supporting pupils on a 1:1 basis or in small groups
- Using de‑escalation techniques to support emotional regulation
- Promoting a calm, safe, and structured learning environment
- Working closely with teachers, pastoral staff, and behaviour teams
- Acting as a positive role model for vulnerable young people
What We’re Looking For
- Experience working with SEMH, challenging behaviour, or vulnerable young people
- Confident classroom and behaviour management skills
- Calm, resilient, and patient approach
- Strong communication and relationship‑building skills
- Backgrounds in education, youth work, sports coaching, care, mentoring, or support work are highly valued
- Full‑time availability (Monday–Friday)
- Team Teach or behaviour training is desirable but not essential
Why Join This School?
- Competitive daily pay: £110 – £125 per day
- Long‑term opportunity within a specialist SEMH setting
- Ongoing CPD and training in behaviour management and de‑escalation
- Supportive and experienced leadership team
- Opportunity to make a genuine impact on young people’s lives
- Excellent experience for those considering careers in teaching, psychology, youth justice, or social work
Ideal For
- Experienced Cover Supervisors
- Behaviour Mentors or SEMH Teaching Assistants
- Sports Coaches or Youth Workers
- Graduates in Psychology, Criminology, or Education
- Individuals passionate about supporting excluded or vulnerable students
SEMH Cover Supervisor – Transforming Young Lives in Wakefield employer: Milk Education
Join our dedicated team at a specialist SEMH school in Wakefield, where you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable young people. We offer competitive pay, ongoing professional development, and a supportive work culture that values resilience and relationship-building. This role not only provides a chance to support students in overcoming challenges but also serves as an excellent stepping stone for those aspiring to careers in education, psychology, or social work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEMH Cover Supervisor – Transforming Young Lives in Wakefield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts 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 practising common questions and scenarios specific to SEMH roles. Think about how you would handle challenging behaviour or support emotional regulation, and be ready to share your strategies.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, let your enthusiasm for supporting vulnerable young people shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be perfect for you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace SEMH Cover Supervisor – Transforming Young Lives in Wakefield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with SEMH and vulnerable young people. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant background!
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting young people shine through in your application. We’re looking for candidates who are genuinely passionate about making a difference, so share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key skills and experiences stand out without unnecessary fluff. This helps us quickly see why you’d be a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Milk Education
✨Know Your SEMH Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge about Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Understand the challenges these students face and be ready to discuss how you can support them effectively. This shows that you're not just interested in the role, but genuinely care about making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Behaviour Management Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed challenging behaviour in the past. Whether it's through de-escalation techniques or building rapport, having specific instances ready will demonstrate your capability to handle the classroom environment confidently.
✨Build a Connection
During the interview, focus on your relationship-building skills. Share stories that highlight your ability to connect with young people, especially those who may have experienced trauma. This is crucial for a role that revolves around supporting vulnerable students.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the school's approach to behaviour management or how they support staff in their professional development. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and your commitment to being part of their team.
