Behaviour Support Worker

Position: Behaviour Support Worker Contract)
Behaviour Support Worker - Alternative Provision (Primary SEMH) - Portsmouth

Our client school's Alternative Provision in Portsmouth is seeking calm, resilient, and relationship‑focused Behaviour Support Workers to support primary‑aged children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. The provision supports pupils who may have experienced disrupted education, trauma, anxiety, or difficulties engaging in a mainstream setting, and offers a nurturing, structured environment where every child is supported to thrive.

This is a highly rewarding role for someone who is passionate about helping children build emotional resilience, develop positive behaviour strategies, and re‑engage with learning through trust, consistency, and therapeutic approaches.

Key Responsibilities

Providing individualised behaviour and emotional support to primary pupils with SEMH needs
Supporting children who may display emotional dysregulation, anxiety, low self‑esteem, or challenging behaviour
Using de‑escalation, restorative approaches, and trauma‑informed practice to maintain a safe, calm environment
Encouraging engagement through creative, practical, and therapeutic activities tailored to each child's needs
Promoting emotional wellbeing, positive routines, and pro‑social behaviour throughout the school day
Helping pupils develop communication, emotional regulation, social interaction, and independence
Building strong, trusting relationships through clear boundaries, consistency, and empathy
Working collaboratively with teachers, pastoral leads, and external professionals to deliver holistic, child‑centred support

Contract Details

Location:

Portsmouth
Position:
Behaviour Support Worker - Alternative Provision (Primary SEMH)

Start Date:

ASAP
Contract Type:
Full‑time, with potential for long‑term or permanent opportunities

Working Hours:

08::30
Pay Rate:
From £14 per hour (depending on experience and qualifications)
Requirements

Applicants must:

Have the Right to Work in the UK
Hold an enhanced child‑barred list DBS on the Update Service (or be willing to apply)
Provide professional references covering the last 24 months
Hold a Level 2/3 qualification in childcare, education, health & social care, or have relevant experience supporting children with SEMH/SEN needs

What We Offer

Free accredited CPD, including safeguarding, behaviour management, trauma‑informed practice, and de‑escalation
Access to a specialist Training & Development Team
Ongoing support from a dedicated consultant experienced in SEMH and Alternative Provision settings
A warm, supportive team culture with clear opportunities for professional growth Refer a Friend

Know someone who would thrive in an SEMH or Alternative Provision environment? You can earn a referral bonus for every successful recommendation