At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people in schools, helping them thrive emotionally and academically.
- Company: Protocol Education, dedicated to shaping futures in education.
- Benefits: Weekly pay, free training, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Flexible term-time roles with potential for permanent positions.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while building your own career.
- Qualifications: Graduates in Psychology, Criminology, or Sociology with a passion for supporting youth.
Are you a Psychology, Criminology, or Sociology graduate looking to make a real difference in young people’s lives? Sunderland schools are seeking Mental Health Support Workers, Learning Support Assistants, and Pastoral Support Assistants to join their teams.
Why your background is a perfect fitYour studies have given you an understanding of behaviour, motivation, and wellbeing—skills schools urgently need. Whether it’s supporting pupils with additional needs, helping young people regulate emotions, or being a steady pastoral presence, your insight into human behaviour means you can connect with students in ways that really count.
Schools value graduates like you because:
- You understand mental health and behaviour beyond the surface.
- You can bring a calm, empathetic approach to challenging situations.
- You’re skilled at building trust and positive relationships.
- You’re motivated to see young people thrive, not just academically but personally.
Monday to Friday, term-time only – work that fits around school schedules.
Roles include 1:1 support, small-group interventions, and whole-class assistance.
Opportunities to support pupils with SEND, SEMH, behaviour needs, and pastoral care.
Working in schools is more than a job—it’s a chance to shape futures while building your own career path. Many of our graduates go on to teaching, social work, counselling, or educational psychology. You’ll gain:
Hands-on experience in education and child development.
Transferable skills in communication, behaviour management, and safeguarding.
The reward of seeing pupils gain confidence and resilience with your support.
Weekly pay through PAYE—no umbrella deductions.
FREE access to our online CPD Academy to boost your skills.
Dedicated local consultant support—real people who listen and match you to the right schools.
A wide range of opportunities in mainstream, SEND, and alternative settings.
Referral scheme—earn rewards for recommending friends.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQs on the Protocol Education website for further details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Protocol Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with the DfE statutory guidance “Keeping Children Safe in Education”, this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer FREE online safeguarding and Prevent Duty training to all our workers. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and subscribe to the DBS Update Service.
Full assistance provided. For details of our privacy policy, please see visit the Protocol Education website.
#J-18808-LjbffrPsychology, Criminology & Sociology Graduates in Sunderland employer: Protocol Education Ltd
At Protocol Education, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth through hands-on experience and access to our online CPD Academy, while our commitment to safeguarding ensures a safe environment for both staff and students. With flexible term-time roles in Sunderland schools, you can build a rewarding career path while contributing to the development and wellbeing of future generations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Psychology, Criminology & Sociology Graduates in Sunderland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university alumni, join relevant groups on social media, and attend local events. The more people you connect with, the better your chances of hearing about job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Tailor your approach for each role. When you’re chatting with potential employers or at interviews, highlight your specific skills in psychology, criminology, or sociology that relate directly to the support roles. Show them how you can make a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of volunteering! Gaining experience in schools, even on a voluntary basis, can give you a foot in the door and show your commitment to helping young people thrive.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way!
We think you need these skills to ace Psychology, Criminology & Sociology Graduates in Sunderland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for working with young people! Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your commitment to mental health and education. This will help us understand why you're the perfect fit for the role.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your skills in behaviour management, empathy, and relationship building. We want to see how your background in Psychology, Criminology, or Sociology aligns with what schools are looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you want to work in schools and how your studies have prepared you for this role. Keep it personal and engaging—let us feel your passion!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s easy, and you’ll get all the info you need about the roles. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protocol Education Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on key concepts from psychology, criminology, and sociology. Be ready to discuss how your academic background relates to the roles you're applying for, especially in terms of mental health and behaviour management.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, demonstrate your understanding of young people's needs. Share examples from your studies or experiences where you've successfully connected with individuals, showing your calm and empathetic approach.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle specific situations in a school setting. Think about scenarios involving students with additional needs or emotional challenges, and prepare thoughtful responses that highlight your problem-solving skills.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few questions ready that show your genuine interest in the role and the school. Ask about their approach to supporting students with SEND or how they foster a positive learning environment.
