Service To The Classroom: Ex-Military Mentor | Support Staff

Tradewind Recruitment; Burnley; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading education recruitment agency is seeking Ex-HMPPS professionals for crucial roles in schools across Burnley. The role involves utilising military skills to manage student behaviour and support at-risk youth, ensuring a positive and structured learning environment. Ideal candidates will have a military background and exceptional communication skills. Training will be provided to transition into the education sector.

Benefits

Specialist CPD training

Qualifications

• Proven background in HM Armed Forces (Army, Navy, RAF, or Marines).
• Exceptional leadership skills and organisational ability.
• Excellent verbal and non-verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Mentor and provide support to students facing social, emotional, and mental health challenges.
• Implement school behaviour policies and manage classroom situations.
• Lead sessions focused on key life skills like discipline and teamwork.

Skills

Leadership & Discipline

Communication

Resilience & Calm Under Pressure

Job description

Are you an experienced Probation Officer or Prison Officer seeking a highly rewarding second career where your unique skills in structure, risk management, and assertive communication are essential?

We are seeking Ex-HMPPS (Probation/Prison Service) professionals to join a collaborative network of secondary schools across Lancashire (Blackpool & Preston). This role is a vital bridge between pastoral care and classroom discipline, utilising your exceptional ability to manage high‑stakes situations and build rapport with challenging young people aged 11‑16 (Key Stage 3 & 4).

We recognise the value of your background and are ready to provide the specialist training needed to transition your expertise into the education sector.

About the Roles: Translating Skills

We are seeking individuals whose background in the Army, Navy, or RAF has equipped them with transferable skills ideal for the dynamic school environment. Roles focus primarily on pastoral care and behaviour support, providing a structured, authoritative, and empathetic presence.

Core Responsibilities (SEO Keywords: Ex-Forces Jobs, Military Transition, Behaviour Support, SEMH, Burnley, Blackburn, Secondary School)

• Mentoring & Role Modelling: Act as a strong Ex-Military role model for students, particularly those who are disengaged or facing social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) challenges.
• Behaviour Intervention: Confidently implement school behaviour policies, using effective de-escalation techniques and structured strategies to manage challenging situations both in and out of the classroom.
• Structured Support: Lead small group sessions and 1:1 mentoring focused on developing key life skills: discipline, resilience, teamwork, punctuality, and respect.
• Student Engagement: Support student attendance, engagement, and uniform standards, translating military values into practical, positive outcomes for young people.
• Safeguarding: Ensure all safeguarding protocols are adhered to, working closely with the Pastoral and Senior Leadership Teams.

What You Bring: The Value of Military Service

We recognise the exceptional value of your service and the highly sought-after skills you possess.

Essential Skills & Background

• Service Leaver / Veteran Status: Proven background in HM Armed Forces (Army, Navy, RAF, or Marines).
• Leadership & Discipline: Exceptional leadership skills, organisational ability, and a demonstrable commitment to personal discipline and high standards.
• Resilience & Calm Under Pressure: The proven ability to remain calm and authoritative in high‑pressure or conflict situations, with expertise in diffusing difficult behaviour.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and non-verbal communication skills, capable of building rapport and trust with young people, staff, and parents.
• Commitment: Dedication to continuous professional development, particularly in areas like SEMH and child behaviour management.

Desirable

• Experience in a training, instructing, or mentoring role within the services.
• Knowledge of local resources or community organisations in the Burnley or Blackburn areas.
• Relevant training, such as Team Teach, First Aid, or Youth Mental Health First Aid.

Why Schools Need Ex-Forces Personnel

• Immediate Impact: Your presence will immediately help improve behaviour standards and reduce low-level disruption.
• Purposeful Work: Continue to serve your community by guiding and mentoring the next generation.
• Ongoing Training: Receive specialist CPD tailored to the education sector (e.g., safeguarding, restorative practice, SEMH).

APPLY TODAY and take the next disciplined step in your career journey!

To express interest and receive a full job description, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing how your military service has prepared you for a career in Pastoral and Behaviour Support to (url removed) or click apply. Please specify your preferred location (Burnley, Blackburn, or either).

Closing Date: On-going

We are a forces-friendly employer and welcome all applications from the Armed Forces Community. This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS Check and all statutory pre‑employment checks.