Alternative Provision (AP) Tutor / Therapeutic Mento...

Beyond Limits Learning & Wellbeing self-employed SEN mentor Beyond Limits Learning & Wellbeing is an established Alternative Provision supporting children and young people who cannot access mainstream education. We do the real work that happens when the school system hasn’t worked. We are not a school, and we do not operate like an academy with a shiny classroom, a set timetable, bells, and endless resources. We’re looking for reliable, calm, consistent AP Tutors/Therapeutic Mentors who can build engagement in real-world settings, think on their feet, and deliver purposeful sessions without needing an institution to carry them. This is NOT a school role. Be clear before you apply: we are not a school. If you rely on classroom routines, fixed schemes of work, or having everything provided for you, this won’t suit you. Our work is practical, relational, and adaptive. You’ll often build sessions around what you can use in the moment, using community spaces and everyday resources to help a young person feel regulated and engaged. Our learners present with a wide range of needs and lived experiences. Many are permanently excluded or at risk of exclusion, and some have been out of education for long periods. Needs we commonly support include (but are not limited to): ASD, ADHD and broader neurodivergent profiles SEMH needs, anxiety, school refusal and emotional dysregulation GDD / learning difficulties and significant gaps due to disrupted education PMLD and complex needs (role dependent) ODD / SEBD presentations and high boundary-testing behaviours Non-verbal or limited verbal communication (including use of alternative communication methods) Acquired brain injury (ABI) / neurological needs affecting processing, memory, stamina and regulation Many learners will not comply simply because you are an adult. They may test boundaries, push back, and watch closely to see whether you are consistent. We do not rely on pushing authority. We rely on understanding, calm confidence, and consistency. If you need compliance to feel in control, this isn’t the right role. This SEN Tutor/AP Mentor role involves delivering face-to-face or small-group support to children and young people at their homes (where agreed), at our own venues, at a local centre, or at community venues such as libraries, town halls, and similar settings. You will be expected to: Plan sessions and resources around the learner’s individual needs, outcomes and starting point (academic, functional skills and/or life skills). Plan and deliver engaging, structured sessions in real-world environments rather than a traditional classroom. Build confidence and motivation through consistent routines, encouragement, and achievable steps. Support learners who may present with challenging behaviour or emotional dysregulation, using calm boundaries rather than power struggles. Track progress towards agreed outcomes and provide clear weekly and monthly reports. Where appropriate, include practical and outdoor learning activities (e.g., nature-based learning, plants, local walks, life skills in the community). Use or learn visual communication strategies where needed (e.g., visuals, cue cards, now/next, and other supportive tools for communication and regulation). What we’re looking for Essential Experience supporting children/young people with additional needs, behaviour that challenges, or complex backgrounds (education, AP, care, youth work, mentoring, coaching or similar). Confident delivering 1:1 sessions (and small groups where appropriate) and maintaining calm, consistent boundaries. Strong safeguarding mindset and consistent adherence to procedures. Reliable communication, professionalism, and accountability. Full UK driving licence and access to a car. Many placements require travel between venues. Enhanced DBS on the update service. Desirable Experience delivering Functional Skills / English / Maths, or a practical/vocational specialism (e.g., construction/woodwork, art, music, sport/fitness, outdoor learning, PFA/life skills). Experience supporting non-verbal learners or learners using alternative communication methods. De-escalation/behaviour support training (or willingness to complete). Experience working on EHCP outcomes and reintegration planning. Working pattern and support £25 to £30 per hour, self-employed contract (depending on experience and delivery type). Ongoing placements and regular hours available for the right people. Sessions typically take place during the school day (with some flexibility depending on placement). You’ll be supported by a leadership team, with clear processes, learner information and reporting templates. This role won’t suit you if you: Need a traditional school environment, fixed curriculum delivery, or heavy classroom resources to feel confident. Expect everything to be pre-planned and provided for you. Struggle with ambiguity, fast changes, or community-based delivery. Rely on authority to get compliance rather than calm confidence and consistency. Avoid responsibility for safeguarding, boundaries, reporting, and professional standards. This role will suit you if you: Stay calm and consistent under pressure and don’t take behaviour personally. Can hold boundaries without escalating or getting into power struggles. Think creatively and build engagement using real-world learning and practical resources. Want to do meaningful work with young people who genuinely need the right adult. Safer recruitment Appointment is subject to safer recruitment checks, including enhanced DBS (child workforce), references, right to work, and completion of mandatory training. This is by no means easy work, but it is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling roles you will ever do