Youth Development Mentor

About the School

Sky Academy is a specialist SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) provision based in Taunton. The academy supports young people who have experienced challenges in mainstream education, often linked to behavioural, emotional, or social needs.

Sky Academy provides a structured, supportive, and therapeutic environment where students are encouraged to re-engage with learning, develop emotional resilience, and build positive relationships. The school places a strong focus on both personal development and engagement, using a combination of education, pastoral care, and enrichment activities to help students grow in confidence and achieve positive outcomes.

About the Role

We are seeking a dedicated and resilient Youth Development Mentor to join the team at Sky Academy.

This role is focused on supporting students with SEMH needs, helping them to develop emotionally, improve behaviour, and re-engage with education. You will work closely with students on a 1:1 basis and in small groups, both within the academy and through targeted pastoral interventions.

As a Youth Development Mentor, you will act as a positive and consistent role model, supporting students with their personal growth, wellbeing, and overall engagement. You will play a key role in building trusted relationships and helping young people develop the confidence, resilience, and life skills needed to succeed both in education and beyond.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting students with emotional regulation and behaviour management
• Delivering 1:1 and small group mentoring sessions
• Supporting students within the classroom and through pastoral interventions
• Promoting engagement, attendance, and personal development
• Building strong, positive relationships with young people
• Encouraging confidence, resilience, and positive decision-making
• Working collaboratively with teaching staff and pastoral teams
• Providing consistent, structured, and supportive guidance

Requirements:

• Experience working with young people, ideally within SEMH, alternative provision, or youth work
• Strong behaviour management and de-escalation skills
• Ability to build rapport with disengaged or vulnerable students
• Resilience, patience, and a calm, empathetic approach
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• A genuine passion for supporting young people to achieve positive outcomes
• A full UK driving licence (essential)

About Affinity Workforce Solutions

This role is being offered through Affinity Workforce Solutions, a leading education recruitment and workforce provider. Affinity works in partnership with schools and trusts across the UK to place high-quality staff who can make a meaningful impact.

We are committed to providing opportunities that are rewarding, supportive, and aligned with long-term career development. With ongoing support, access to professional development, and a dedicated team, we ensure our candidates are set up to succeed and thrive in their roles.