SEND Academic Mentor - Somerset

Alternative Provision | EOTAS | 1:1 Support | Flexible Working | September 2026

Quantum Scholars is expanding its Alternative Provision services across Somerset and is looking to recruit dedicated SEND Academic Mentors across Bridgwater and the surrounding areas.

With a significant increase in EOTAS (Education Otherwise Than at School) and Alternative Provision referrals expected from September 2026, we are seeking compassionate and motivated individuals who are passionate about supporting children and young people with additional needs to re-engage with education.

This is a rewarding opportunity to provide personalised 1:1 academic and pastoral support, helping learners build confidence, overcome barriers to learning, and achieve meaningful progress.

As a SEND Academic Mentor, you will work with primary and secondary-aged pupils (5-16 years) who are currently unable to access mainstream education.

Every learner has unique strengths and challenges, so you'll adapt your approach to meet their academic, emotional, and social needs. Alongside supporting learning, you'll play an important role in encouraging engagement, developing confidence, and creating a safe, positive environment where young people can thrive.

Many of the learners we support have a range of additional needs, including:

• SEND
• Autism (ASC)
• ADHD
• Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs
• Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN)
• Anxiety and Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA)
• Trauma or adverse childhood experiences
• Medical needs
• Behavioural challenges

Support is delivered on a 1:1 basis, usually in the learner's home or within an appropriate community setting, with occasional online sessions where suitable.

We aim to match mentors with learners based on your experience, confidence, and preferred age groups.

We welcome applications from professionals with experience supporting children and young people, including:

• SEND Academic Mentors
• Learning Support Assistants (LSAs)
• Teaching Assistants (TAs)
• Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTAs)
• Behaviour Mentors
• Youth Workers
• Pastoral Support Staff
• Support Workers
• Alternative Provision practitioners
• Qualified Teachers looking for a more flexible role

You should have:

• Experience supporting children or young people, particularly those with SEND or additional needs.
• A passion for helping learners overcome barriers to education.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• A calm, patient, and adaptable approach.
• An Enhanced DBS certificate (or willingness to obtain one).
• The ability to travel across Taunton and the surrounding areas. A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle are highly desirable.

• Flexible working that fits around your availability.
• Ongoing referrals throughout the academic year.
• Competitive hourly rates, dependent on experience.
• Meaningful 1:1 work supporting vulnerable children and young people.
• Dedicated support from an experienced consultant throughout your placements.

Please note that applicants must already have the right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, visa sponsorship is not available for these opportunities.

If you're passionate about helping children and young people overcome barriers to learning and want to make a genuine difference through personalised academic and pastoral support, we'd love to hear from you.