Youth Support Worker - Reading

Academics; Old Warren; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 20,000; Part time

Job summary

Academics in Reading is seeking a compassionate Youth Support Worker to support students aged 5 to 11 with SEMH needs in a specialist school. You will help with emotional regulation, behaviour support and academic progress within a restorative, structured environment.

The role emphasizes personalised EHCPs, small classes, strong senior leadership, and opportunities for hands-on professional development in SEMH settings.

Qualifications

• Students aged 5 to 11 with SEMH needs and behavioural challenges.
• Focus on emotional regulation, behavioural development and academic progress.
• Restorative practices to support wellbeing and learning.

Responsibilities

• Support students with emotional and behavioural needs to engage in learning.
• Contribute to personalised EHCP goals and life skills development.
• Work within a nurturing, structured environment to promote resilience.

Skills

SEMH experience

Empathy

Positive mindset

Adaptability

Experience with children

Job description

Youth Support Worker - Reading

We have an exciting opportunity for a compassionate and dedicated Youth Support Worker to join a specialist school in Reading supporting students aged 5 to 11 with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, many of whom also experience behavioural challenges.

This role is vital in a nurturing and structured environment where every child benefits from a personalised Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). You will work closely with students to support their emotional regulation, behavioural development, and academic progress, helping them build resilience and confidence to thrive both inside and beyond school.

Our school uses restorative practices to empower students in managing their emotions and behaviours, setting them on a path towards positive personal growth and success. You'll be an integral part of a team committed to creating a safe, supportive space that fosters wellbeing and learning.

What you'll bring to the role:

• A patient, kind, and empathetic approach to working with children facing SEMH and behavioural difficulties
• A positive mindset and a passion for helping young people overcome their challenges
• Willingness to learn and adapt to the individual needs of each child
• Previous experience working with children, particularly those with SEMH or behavioural needs, is desirable but not essential

You’ll be supporting students who need extra emotional and behavioural support to engage successfully in their learning. Your contribution will help them achieve personalised goals and develop essential life skills that prepare them for the next stages of their education and life beyond school.

Whether you’re a graduate seeking experience or someone passionate about making a difference in the community, this role offers valuable hands‑on experience and professional development in a specialist SEMH setting.

Details:

• Location: Reading
• Term-time role
• Salary: £95-£110 per day
• Start date: ASAP / September
• Small class sizes with strong senior leadership support

Salary will be determined by the successful candidate’s qualifications and relevant experience, and will be in accordance with the client’s pay policy