We are seeking to appoint a full time Inclusion Support Practitioner/Wellbeing and Engagement Mentor to start from Autumn 2026 on a fixed-term basis until 21 July 2027. The post offers an excellent opportunity to work in a strong SEND department in our highly successful academy.
The core purpose of the role is to support the day-to-day operation and development of the Lighthouse provision, providing therapeutic, relational and structured support for students experiencing social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, sensory differences, emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA) and barriers to engagement.
The post holder will promote emotional regulation, readiness to learn and successful participation in mainstream education through targeted intervention, restorative approaches and graduated support. They will work collaboratively with the SEND team, pastoral teams, safeguarding staff, families and external agencies to strengthen inclusion, belonging and positive outcomes for vulnerable students.
Personal Qualities
The ideal candidate should be a committed, enthusiastic and hardworking individual who is passionate about supporting the educational achievement and personal development of students across Years 7 to 13.
Essential Qualifications:
- GCSE Maths and English at Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent).
- A relevant Level 3 qualification in Education, Child Development, Youth Work, Counselling, Health & Social Care, Mental Health, SEND, or a related field.
Desirable Qualifications and Training:
- A degree in a relevant discipline, such as Psychology, Education, Youth Work or Social Work.
- Professional training or experience in SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health), trauma-informed practice, attachment-aware approaches, restorative practice, mental health support, autism, or sensory differences.
Personal Attributes: The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to improving outcomes for young people, with the ability to build positive relationships and provide effective support for students' learning, wellbeing and personal growth. They will be proactive, resilient and able to maintain a clear focus on fostering high-quality teaching, learning and personal development opportunities for all students.
Responsibilities of the Post Holder
Responsibilities of the post holder will be in accordance with the Inclusion Support Practitioner/Wellbeing and Engagement Mentor job description.
We can offer you:
- A highly supportive and friendly working environment
- Opportunities for Financial training, development and accreditation.
- Cycle-to-work Scheme
- 24/7 Free Employee Assistance Programme (offering individual support, information and advice including financial, legal and home-life and work-related issues)
- CPD opportunities and Internal Promotion
- Up to 25% Gym Membership
- Free staff car park
- Essex Working Well Wellbeing Service (health and wellbeing support and guidance)
- Access to Workplace Health Champions
- Access to Mental Health First Aiders
Remuneration and Working Time
The hours of work required for the role are 37 hours per week, Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 4.30pm and Friday 8.30am to 4pm (with 30 minutes unpaid break), term time plus inset days (39 weeks per year).
Annual salary for an Inclusion Support Practitioner will be in accordance with the Academy’s Support Staff Pay Scale, which for appointment for a full-time post currently involves a salary of up to £30,025 salary (Band 3 Point 21-25), however, actual salary offered will be £23,194.45 per annum, pro rata equivalent of point 21 including an allowance for holiday pay.
Application Process
If you are interested in the position and wish to discuss the post prior to application, please email the HR team, at hr@plume.essex.sch.uk, to arrange a telephone conversation. We are very proud of our academy and what we can offer new members of our team. The HR Team will be pleased to discuss the post and provide further information about the academy.
To apply please complete the Online Plume Academy application form (APPLY NOW). This must be completed and submitted to HR@plume.essex.sch.uk by the closing date stated (unaccompanied CVs or third-party application forms will not be accepted).
Closing Date: 1 September 2026 at 12:00 midday.
Interviews will likely take place the same week.
Plume Academy remains fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and trustees to share this commitment.