At a Glance
- Tasks: Support secondary students with challenging behaviours and enhance their learning experience.
- Company: Join a dedicated team making a difference in Preston schools.
- Benefits: Fair pay, job stability, and ongoing professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Perfect for those looking to transition into a structured school environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young lives and help them thrive academically.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Youth Worker or similar role, with strong empathy and resilience.
Location: Preston, Lancashire (PR)
Salary: NJC Pay Scale (Dependent on experience / Spinal Column Point)
Contract Type: Full-Time, 1-Year Fixed Term Contract
Start Date: September 2026 (or sooner for the right candidate)
Are you an experienced Youth Worker, Mentor, or Sports Coach looking to make a lasting impact inside Preston schools? We are looking for a dedicated and resilient Behavior Support Worker to work across local secondary schools in the Preston area. This is a 1-year fixed-term contract starting in September 2026 (with potential for an earlier start) designed for someone who excels at breaking down barriers to learning and supporting students with challenging behaviour or social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs.
If you have a background in community youth work, sports coaching, or alternative provision and want to transition into a structured school environment, this role offers the perfect platform.
Key Responsibilities:
- Behaviour Mentorship: Work closely with secondary students on a 1:1 or small-group basis to manage challenging behaviours and improve classroom engagement.
- De-escalation & Support: Implement positive behaviour strategies to prevent exclusions and foster a productive learning environment.
- Liaison & Reporting: Work alongside Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs), teachers, and external youth agencies to monitor student progress.
- Confidence Building: Act as a trusted, positive role model to raise students' aspirations, resilience, and self-esteem.
What We Look For:
- Relevant Experience: A background as a Youth Worker, Behaviour Mentor, Social Worker, Sports Coach, or Residential Care Specialist.
- School Sector Ready: Prior experience working with secondary-aged children (ages 11-16) facing social or behavioural barriers.
- Strong Character: Empathy, resilience, excellent de-escalation skills, and a calm, non-judgemental approach under pressure.
- Local Knowledge: Based in or easily able to commute to various school locations across Preston.
What We Offer:
- Fair, Regulated Pay: Remuneration is fully aligned with the official NJC (National Joint Council) Pay Scale, ensuring fair pay for school support staff.
- Fixed-Term Stability: A secure 1-year contract structured around the academic year.
- Professional Development: Continuous safeguarding, behaviour management, and de-escalation training.
How to Apply:
Ready to bring your youth work expertise into the classroom and change trajectories for young people in Preston? Click 'Apply Now' or send your CV directly to (url removed).
Behavior Support Worker / Youth Worker (Secondary Schools) in Preston employer: Tradewind Recruitment
Join a supportive and dynamic team dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people in Preston. As a Behavior Support Worker, you will benefit from fair pay aligned with the NJC Pay Scale, a secure fixed-term contract, and ongoing professional development opportunities that empower you to excel in your role. Our inclusive work culture fosters collaboration and resilience, ensuring you have the resources and support needed to thrive in a school environment while helping students overcome challenges.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Behavior Support Worker / Youth Worker (Secondary Schools) in Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector or local community. You never know who might have a lead on a Behaviour Support Worker role or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local events or workshops related to youth work. This not only boosts your skills but also helps you meet potential employers and showcase your passion for supporting young people.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions specific to behaviour support roles. Think about scenarios where you've successfully managed challenging behaviours and how you can apply those experiences in a school setting.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed, and we’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals ready to make a difference in Preston schools.
We think you need these skills to ace Behavior Support Worker / Youth Worker (Secondary Schools) in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience as a Youth Worker or Mentor. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your skills in behaviour management and working with secondary-aged students.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about supporting students with SEMH needs. We love seeing personal stories or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to making a difference in young people's lives.
Showcase Your Skills:In your application, highlight specific examples of how you've successfully managed challenging behaviours or built confidence in young people. We’re looking for those standout moments that show us you’ve got what it takes to excel in this role.
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 into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tradewind Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Behaviour Support Worker and the specific challenges faced by secondary school students. Brush up on strategies for managing challenging behaviours and how to support students with SEMH needs. This will show your passion and readiness for the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your relevant background, whether it's youth work, sports coaching, or mentoring. Have specific examples ready that highlight your skills in de-escalation and building confidence in young people. This will help demonstrate your fit for the position.
✨Be Ready to Role Play
Expect some scenario-based questions during the interview. Practise how you would handle specific situations involving challenging behaviour. This will not only showcase your problem-solving skills but also your ability to think on your feet.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few insightful questions about the school's approach to behaviour management and how they support their staff. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the environment is right for you.
