Progression Mentor in South Shields

We are looking to appoint two passionate and dedicated Progression Mentors to join our Student Services team and play a key role in supporting learners to thrive both personally and academically. One role will be based at South Tyneside College and the other at Tyne Metropolitan College. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who is committed to improving the lives of young people and understands the impact that effective mentoring, early intervention and holistic support can have on learner success.

As a Progression Mentor, you will work closely with students facing a range of challenges, including mental health needs, social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) difficulties, and caring responsibilities. You will help learners overcome barriers, improve engagement and attendance, develop resilience, and achieve their goals.

What You'll Be Doing

• Build positive and trusting relationships with learners to identify and remove barriers to learning and progression.
• Provide tailored mentoring, coaching and support plans.
• Support learners experiencing mental health challenges, complex SEMH needs and other vulnerabilities.
• Monitor attendance, punctuality and progress, implementing early interventions where required.
• Plan and deliver engaging group sessions and workshops focused on wellbeing, resilience, personal development and emotional literacy.
• Promote equality, diversity, inclusion and belonging through learner activities and events.
• Work collaboratively with curriculum teams, safeguarding colleagues and external agencies to coordinate learner support.
• Lead and support Fitness to Study processes.
• Attend disciplinary hearings, advocate for learners and support reintegration where appropriate.
• Maintain accurate records, monitor outcomes and contribute to service improvement.

What We're Looking For

We are seeking someone with:

Essential Qualifications

• GCSE English and Maths (Grade 4/C or above) or equivalent.
• Level 3 qualification in Health and Social Care or a related subject.

Essential Experience and Skills

• Experience of working with young people in an education, support or wellbeing setting.
• Experience of mentoring learners and helping overcome barriers to engagement and achievement.
• A strong understanding of mental health and complex SEMH needs.
• Experience of improving attendance, academic outcomes and personal development through intervention and support.
• Knowledge of safeguarding practices and multi-agency working.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust.
• Experience delivering workshops or sessions to both small and large groups.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to maintain accurate records and analyse learner data.
• A flexible, proactive and learner-centred approach.

Desirable

• Experience supporting young carers or other vulnerable groups.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practice.
• Experience of Fitness to Study or disciplinary processes.
• Experience of advocacy or learner voice initiatives.
• Conflict resolution and mediation skills.
• A higher-level qualification in a relevant subject area.

Why Join Us?

At Tyne Coast College, our learners are at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive and empowering environment where every student can achieve their full potential. This role offers the opportunity to make a genuine impact on learners' lives while working alongside experienced and committed colleagues within a highly supportive team.

Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All successful applicants will be required to undergo appropriate pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. If you're passionate about supporting young people, championing wellbeing and helping learners succeed, we'd love to hear from you.