About the College
Northumberland College is Ofsted Outstanding and is currently building a multi-million, state of the art, new college campus in Ashington, due to open in 2026. The successful candidate will be based at the new college where a purpose-built construction, housing, advanced manufacturing and engineering centre will be located.
Curriculum spans technical, vocational further and higher education and includes large apprenticeship provision and dedicated centres for young people with SEND.
The College has two main campuses in Ashington, and Ponteland, and as part of the college group Education Partnership Northeast, it also has a significant number of satellite delivery centres across the region
Served by easy road links, and the new train station in Ashington, when Northumberland College opens its new Department for Education backed campus at Wansbeck Business Park, the college will boast a national trailblazer both in architectural design and operation. This major £52 million+ investment comes on top of the College recently driving £14million into new facilities and resources at its existing sites.
Please see the following link to our 2024 Ofsted Report, in which we were graded as being Outstanding across all areas - Ofsted-Report-Outstanding
Our Journey & Values
As an employer, we prioritize cultivating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, where our staff can thrive and grow. We recognize that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are deeply committed to investing in their professional development and overall wellbeing.
About the Candidate
We are looking for a compassionate, curious, and resilient individual who is passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). You will be empathetic, patient, and emotionally intelligent, with a commitment to inclusive practice and equity in education.
At the heart of our values is a belief in respect, courage, authenticity and excellence. You’ll embody these by fostering trusted relationships, championing neurodiversity, and inspiring confidence in others to realise their potential. You’ll be a natural problem-solver, a calm presence in times of challenge, and someone who sees possibilities where others might see limitations.
As a Specialist Support Mentor, you will be a key figure in breaking down barriers and creating inclusive pathways for learners with ASC. By offering tailored, person-centred support, you’ll help students build confidence, independence, and resilience—ultimately enabling them to thrive in education and beyond. Your role will directly shape the lived experiences of young people who are often misunderstood, underrepresented, and underserved.
About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity to work on a cross-campus initiative to enhance support for learners with ASC. You’ll join a team committed to innovative and inclusive practice, with a strong culture of collaboration, reflection, and learning.
In this role, you’ll support learners on a one-to-one and small group basis, work alongside teaching staff to co-develop inclusive strategies, and act as a trusted adult for learners navigating complex educational and emotional challenges.
You will have access to continuous professional development opportunities, including autism-specific training, coaching, and the chance to contribute to projects that shape whole-college inclusive practice. You'll also gain exposure to emerging assistive technologies, digital tools, and collaborative working with multidisciplinary professionals.
Role Responsibilities
- Provide tailored support for learners with ASC through structured mentoring sessions and in-class support.
- Work collaboratively with teaching staff to co-create and implement inclusive teaching strategies.
- Develop and review individual support plans that reflect each learner’s strengths, needs, and aspirations.
- Build trusting, professional relationships that foster student confidence and independence.
- Monitor and report on learner progress, including emotional regulation, engagement, and wellbeing.
- Act as an advocate for learners with ASC, promoting a culture of inclusion and understanding across the college.
Qualifications
- Level 3 qualification or above in Education, Youth Work, Health & Social Care, SEND or a related field.
- Minimum Level 2 English and Maths.
- Evidence of ongoing professional development related to SEN or neurodiversity.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Proven experience supporting individuals with Autism in an educational or community setting.
- Strong understanding of ASC, including sensory processing, social communication, and emotional regulation.
- Ability to build positive, professional relationships with young people and colleagues.
- Skilled in adapting communication and support strategies to meet individual needs.
- Knowledge of safeguarding practices and experience in responding appropriately to concerns.
- A reflective practitioner, committed to continuous learning and inclusive practice.
Desirable Skills & Experience – (Optional)
- Experience working in Further Education or post-16 settings.
- Knowledge of assistive technologies or tools used to support learners with ASC.
- Experience contributing to EHCP reviews or multi-agency working.
- Training in Team Teach, Zones of Regulation, SCERTS, or similar frameworks.
What’s in it for you?
Join EPNE and you’ll be part of a culture that prioritizes your development and wellbeing, which is why all employees receive an extensive benefits package.
- Enjoy a generous holiday allowance (35-48 days per year, plus public holidays).
- Generous family leave and flexible working options (dependent on role)
- LGPS or Teacher Pensions Scheme, (dependent on role 15.7% - 23.68%)
- Access to myLifestyle benefits platform providing retail discounts and more.
- We offer dental, eye care & health cash plans.
- Extensive wellbeing support through a digital Wellbeing Hub that offers a broad range of support for physical, mental, and financial wellbeing.
- Free parking on most campuses.
- Free Gym access available at Bede Campus
Due to the nature of this post, you will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure Check.
We believe in equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
We are committed to PREVENT and safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.
Please contact Peter Monaghan peter.monaghan@northumberland.ac.uk should you wish to have an informal chat about the role.