Alternative Provision Practitioner

The job in one line

You help learners from primary through to KS3 and KS4 find their way back into learning, and teach maths and English up to GCSE, Functional Skills up to Level 2 and Customer Services Level 1 to KS3 and KS4 students who need a different route to the grade.

Who you will be working with

PET-Xi delivers alternative provision for pupils of compulsory school age who need a bespoke and supportive approach to their education. They are with us because of behavioural, emotional, social, medical or other complex needs, and many face real barriers to mainstream education.

At primary, the work is about engagement: attendance, behaviour, social and emotional skills, and a positive relationship with learning. At KS3 and KS4 the subject matters too: planned, differentiated maths and English sessions for small groups.

What the job asks of you

–  Build the relationship first. Pupils engage with adults they trust. Everything else follows from that.

–  Support behaviour the right way. Use restorative and trauma-informed approaches, implement behaviour support plans and risk assessments, and support pupils through dysregulation and crisis.

–  Help pupils manage their emotions. Work with them to find strategies that actually work for them.

–  Teach maths and English up to GCSE. Prepare and adapt sessions for KS3 and KS4 learners to meet individual needs. All materials will be provided.

–  Keep progress visible. Maintain accurate records, give clear feedback to learners and PET-Xi staff, and contribute to learner reviews.

–  Keep the space safe. A calm, nurturing and inclusive environment, with safeguarding and wellbeing upheld at all times.

Who we are looking for

Someone who has worked in alternative provision or a similar setting, and knows that a hard day with a pupil is information, not failure.

There are things you will need: proven experience working with pupils in alternative provision or a similar setting, the ability to deliver maths and English confidently to GCSE, strong classroom and behaviour management, and an understanding of trauma-informed and learner-centred approaches. QTS or a relevant teaching or tutoring qualification is welcome, and not required. What matters just as much:

–  Excellent communication, and the patience to build a relationship with a pupil who does not want one yet.

–  A proactive, flexible approach. The plan for the day will change, often.

–  Resilience. Some weeks the odds win. You come back on Monday.

Many of our pupils have learned to expect adults to give up on them. Staying calm, and staying, is the job.

What we offer

–  £120-£160 per day, depending on experience and relevant qualifications

–  Flexible hours

–  Work that matters, with pupils for whom the right adult makes the biggest difference.