At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with SEMH, SEN, and Autism in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Specialist secondary provision focused on emotional wellbeing and positive relationships.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time only, excellent CPD, and career progression.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking team that prioritises staff wellbeing and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Experience with secondary-aged pupils and a background in education or youth work.
The predicted salary is between 23500 - 25000 € per year.
Teaching Assistant / Pastoral Support Worker (SEMH / SEN) – Secondary
Location: Crawley, West Sussex
Salary: £23,500 – £25,000 (Term Time Only)
Contract: 12‑week Temp to Perm | Full-Time
Start Date: September 2026
Are you an experienced Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant, Behaviour Mentor, or Pastoral Support Worker looking for a more meaningful and relationship‑focused role? We are recruiting for a Teaching Assistant / Pastoral Key Worker to join a specialist secondary provision in Crawley that supports young people with SEMH, SEN, Autism (ASC), and Emotional Based School Avoidance (EBSA). This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a trauma‑informed setting where emotional wellbeing, trust, and positive relationships are at the centre of learning.
The Role
As a Pastoral Support Worker, you will play a key role in helping students rebuild confidence, regulate emotions, and re‑engage with education in a safe and supportive environment. Working closely with the SENCo, pastoral teams, therapists, and teaching staff, you will provide tailored support that helps students feel secure, understood, and ready to learn.
Key Responsibilities
- Providing 1:1 and small‑group pastoral support
- Supporting students with SEMH, SEN, Autism (ASC), and EBSA
- Helping pupils develop emotional regulation and coping strategies
- Building strong, positive, and consistent relationships with students
- Supporting behaviour, wellbeing, and classroom engagement
- Contributing to EHCP targets and personalised support plans
- Monitoring attendance, engagement, and student progress
- Supporting transitions back into structured learning environments
- Working collaboratively with families and external professionals
The Ideal Candidate
We are looking for someone who:
- Has experience supporting secondary‑aged pupils with SEMH, SEN, or behavioural needs
- Comes from a background in education, pastoral care, youth work, mentoring, or alternative provision
- Is calm, resilient, and emotionally intelligent
- Builds positive relationships and communicates effectively
- Understands trauma‑informed or therapeutic approaches (desirable)
- Is passionate about making a lasting difference to young people
Why Apply?
- Opportunity to work in a therapeutic and trauma‑informed environment
- Supportive and forward‑thinking leadership team
- Excellent CPD and career progression opportunities
- Strong emphasis on staff wellbeing and collaboration
Pastoral Support Worker in Crawley employer: NextGen Teachers
Join a supportive and forward-thinking team in Crawley, where you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people with SEMH and SEN. Our trauma-informed environment prioritises emotional wellbeing and positive relationships, offering excellent professional development and career progression opportunities. With a strong emphasis on staff wellbeing and collaboration, this role as a Pastoral Support Worker is perfect for those looking to contribute to a nurturing educational setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pastoral Support Worker in Crawley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education or related fields. Let them know you're on the lookout for a Pastoral Support Worker role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local community events or workshops related to SEMH and SEN. This not only boosts your knowledge but also helps you meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Plus, it shows your commitment to the field!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions specific to pastoral support roles. Think about scenarios where you've made a difference in students' lives. We want to hear your stories that showcase your skills and passion!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and eager to join our supportive team.
We think you need these skills to ace Pastoral Support Worker in Crawley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with SEMH, SEN, and building relationships. We want to see how your background aligns with the role of a Pastoral Support Worker.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting young people shine through! Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles. We love to see candidates who are genuinely passionate about helping others.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate when candidates communicate effectively, just like we expect you to do with our students!
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 this fantastic opportunity in Crawley.
How to prepare for a job interview at NextGen Teachers
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Pastoral Support Worker inside out. Familiarise yourself with SEMH, SEN, and the specific needs of students with Autism and EBSA. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous roles and how they relate to this position. Think about specific examples where you've supported students or built positive relationships. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your impact.
✨Emphasise Emotional Intelligence
As a Pastoral Support Worker, emotional intelligence is key. Be ready to talk about how you handle challenging situations and support students in regulating their emotions. Share any techniques or strategies you've used to build trust and rapport with young people.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have some questions prepared that show your interest in the role and the school’s approach. Ask about their trauma-informed practices or how they support staff wellbeing. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the environment is right for you.
