Alternative Education Learning Mentor (2025/JB008)

Job Introduction

Are you passionate about supporting young people to thrive in education? Do you have the drive to make a real difference in the lives of learners aged 14–19? East Durham College is seeking a dedicated and dynamic Alternative Education Mentor to join our Alternative Provision team.

About the Role

As an Alternative Education Mentor, you’ll play a vital role in providing mentoring, pastoral care, behavioural support, and learning guidance to students within our Home Education and LEAP programmes. You’ll work closely with our PAL and lecturers to re-engage learners, support their progression, and help them build resilience and confidence.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Supporting attendance monitoring and leading return-to-college meetings

• Delivering 1:1 catch-up sessions and in-class support

• Coordinating Home Ed parent evenings and learner reports

• Managing applications, diagnostics, and inductions for Alternative Provision

• Maintaining accurate data on the College MIS system

• Preparing learners for progression into further education or employment

• Promoting mindfulness and growth mindset strategies

• Handling safeguarding concerns and escalating appropriately

• Contributing to annual reviews and target setting via Pro-monitor

Essential Criteria

• NVQ Level 3 in Administration or similar

• GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths and English

• Experience working in an educational setting

• Experience supporting learners with behavioural challenges or learning difficulties

• Strong communication and organisational skills

• Ability to build positive relationships with students, staff, and external agencies

• Knowledge of effective support strategies and student progress monitoring

Desirable Criteria

• Learning Support Assistant qualification (Level 2 or above)

• Level 2 ICT qualification

• Experience working in a school setting (ages 11–16)

• Familiarity with EHC plans and review processes

• Experience administering medicines

• Full UK driving licence and/or access to a vehicle

Why Join Us?

East Durham College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. We uphold British Values and champion equality, diversity, and inclusion. You’ll be part of a supportive team that values professionalism, integrity, and continuous development.

Ready to inspire and empower the next generation? Apply today and help shape futures at East Durham College.

What we offer:

• 30 days annual leave + Bank Holidays. 
• LGPS Pension Scheme with up to 17.5% employer contributions. 
• Access to a Cash Healthcare Plan. 
• Free Gym Membership.
• Enhanced Maternity/ Paternity and Adoption leave. 
• 3 days paid emergency leave per year.
• Various Paid and unpaid leave for other needs.
• Funded Continuous Professional Development (CPD) where appropriate.
• Onsite restaurant, Canteen and Hair and Beauty Salon.
• Free onsite parking.
• On site Nursery facilities (up to 5 yoa).
• Cycle to work scheme and much more.
• Access to free Beamish Tickets.