Job Description

Alternative Provision Assistant

This is a deeply rewarding opportunity to support students who need an extra layer of care, encouragement, and consistency to thrive in school. As an Alternative Provision Assistant (APA), your role will focus on building warm, trusting relationships with young people who may be facing emotional, behavioural, or academic challenges. You'll be a calming, dependable presence--someone who helps students feel safe, understood, and capable of success, even when things feel tough.

Key responsibilities include:

Providing personalised, compassionate support

Working with individuals and small groups both inside and outside of the classroom Supporting students who experience difficulties with learning, emotional wellbeing, or behaviour Using gentle but effective behaviour management strategies to guide students and help them stay engaged Encouraging confidence, independence, and a sense of self-worth Breaking down tasks and instructions in a clear, supportive way Providing reassurance and encouragement throughout the day Supporting learning in areas such as literacy, numeracy, communication, and self-regulation Helping students rebuild social skills and feel part of school life again

Working together as part of a nurturing team

Collaborating closely with teaching staff, the SENCO, and other professionals to provide joined-up support Contributing to individual support plans and behaviour strategies that reflect each student's needs Ensuring students experience consistency, structure, and care across the provision

You may also support by:

Supervising students during break and lunchtime in a calm and positive way Attending off-site educational visits Helping with exam invigilation when needed Taking part in training and professional development to build your skills and confidence

The ideal candidate will be:

Experienced in supporting children or young people with behavioural challenges (essential) Calm, patient, and kind--even when under pressure Confident in building trusting relationships with students who may have had difficult experiences in education A thoughtful communicator and reliable team member Committed to safeguarding, inclusion, and creating safe, welcoming spaces for every learner

Every day is a chance to:

Be someone a student can rely on, no matter what Support a young person in turning a corner, even in small ways Celebrate progress and effort, not just outcomes * Show a child that school can be a place where they feel safe, respected, and seen