Pastoral and Nurture Assistant

Contract: Fixed Term until February 2027

Hours: 2 or 3 days per week. Days to be discussed with candidates. 12.25 – 20.25 hours, 39 weeks (term time plus one week)

Working Pattern: 8.45am start, finish time varies with day: Mon, Tues, Thurs is 3.45pm, Weds is 4.30pm and Friday 3pm

Salary: Pathway 5, FTE £32,061 – 34,434.  Actual salary will depend on the number of hours agreed.

Site: Richard Barnes Academy (Fitzwilliam Campus)

Closing date:  9am on Friday 30^th January

Start date:  March 2026

Please note the trust may decide to withdraw the advert before the closing date or interview suitable candidates prior to the advert closing.  

Do you believe every child deserves the chance to become their best self?

Are you experienced in supporting children with social, emotional or mental health needs and ready to make a real difference?

Are you calm, patient and positive under pressure?

 If so, Richard Barnes Academy wants to hear from you!

Your role:

As a Pastoral and Nurture Assistant, you will support Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 children experiencing emotional, behavioural or social challenges. You will build calm, trusting relationships and create a welcoming space where pupils feel heard, valued and safe. You will plan and deliver personalised emotional‑literacy and nurture interventions, working 1:1 and in small groups to help children understand their emotions, manage stress or conflict, form friendships and develop resilience.

You will work closely with teachers, the SENDCo and external professionals, contributing to learning plans, clearly communicating progress, and helping colleagues apply effective strategies. Patience, strong organisation, empathy, excellent communication, a mature and non‑judgemental approach and at least one year’s experience supporting children with SEMH needs are essential, alongside a firm commitment to safeguarding.

As part of our team, you will model our Three Pillars of Ambition, Character and Safe, empowering children to take ownership of their choices, grow in confidence and re‑engage positively with learning.

About us:

Richard Barnes Academy is an alternative provision academy committed to supporting and raising the aspirations of children who have been permanently excluded or are at risk of exclusion from mainstream schools.  We value our staff and offer a supportive and inclusive work environment where you can make a significant impact on children’s lives, helping them achieve their full potential.

Alongside making a measurable difference every day, you’ll benefit from professional development, supportive leadership, and the chance to work within a Trust that champions equality, wellbeing and continuous improvement. This is a place where staff go above and beyond because the impact is real, visible and deeply rewarding.

Join us and enjoy a fulfilling career where your contributions are recognised and valued. 

Why work for us?:

Join Thomas Deacon Education Trust and be part of a dedicated team committed to "working together to transform lives through education.”  To learn more about the benefits we have on offer, check out our video here: Employee Benefits

At TDET, 95% of our new employees highly rate our induction programme. Benefit from the unwavering support of our dedicated staff, ensuring you feel welcomed and well-prepared from day one.  According to our 2025 staff survey, 91% of staff are proud to work for TDET!

Ready to transform lives through education?  Apply now and make a difference!

TDET - Working together to transform lives through education

Thomas Deacon Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The Academy will require the successful candidate to provide satisfactory references and undertake an Enhanced Check with the Disclosure and Barring Service.

At Thomas Deacon Education Trust, we are committed to equality of opportunity for all. We welcome applications from everyone, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. Join us in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where all contributions are valued.

If you have any questions regarding this post, please contact the HR Team on e-mail at  hrteam@tdet.education