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. 

Join Our Team at East Durham College

Now is the perfect time to become part of our fantastic team at East Durham College! With recent investments enhancing our already outstanding teaching facilities and further development on the horizon, the College offers an excellent environment for both staff and students. We take pride in providing access to education for all, offering clear pathways through various stages of learning with a strong focus on employment opportunities across the North East region. We’re also thrilled to have earned our fifth consecutive ‘GOOD’ rating from Ofsted.

East Durham College operates across three campuses, delivering a wide range of courses from general further education and A-Levels to specialist land-based and technical programs, ensuring there is something for everyone. As a team member, you’ll enjoy a generous holiday entitlement, Local Government or Teachers Pensions, free gym access (Willerby Grove Campus), free parking, and much more.

We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive community where everyone can be themselves and succeed. We encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply and join our dynamic workforce.

As part of our commitment to equality and diversity, East Durham College operates a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for applicants who meet the essential criteria, as part of our status as a Disability Confident Employer.

At East Durham College, we uphold Safer Recruitment and Keeping Children Safe in Education standards. This role requires an enhanced DBS check. It is an offence to apply for the role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children. 

For more information about the College, please visit our Creating outstanding futures | East Durham College.