Behavior Support Worker / Youth Worker (Secondary Schools) in Preston - Tradewind Recruitment

Location: Preston, Lancashire (PR)

Salary: NJC Pay Scale (Dependent on experience / Spinal Column Point)

Contract Type: Full-Time, 1-Year Fixed Term Contract

Start Date: September 2026 (or sooner for the right candidate)

Are you an experienced Youth Worker, Mentor, or Sports Coach looking to make a lasting impact inside Preston schools?

We are looking for a dedicated and resilient Behavior Support Worker to work across local secondary schools in the Preston area. This is a 1-year fixed-term contract starting in September 2026 (with potential for an earlier start) designed for someone who excels at breaking down barriers to learning and supporting students with challenging behaviour or social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs.

If you have a background in community youth work, sports coaching, or alternative provision and want to transition into a structured school environment, this role offers the perfect platform.

• Behaviour Mentorship: Work closely with secondary students on a 1:1 or small-group basis to manage challenging behaviours and improve classroom engagement.

• De-escalation & Support: Implement positive behaviour strategies to prevent exclusions and foster a productive learning environment.

• Liaison & Reporting: Work alongside Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs), teachers, and external youth agencies to monitor student progress.

• Confidence Building: Act as a trusted, positive role model to raise students' aspirations, resilience, and self-esteem.

• Relevant Experience: A background as a Youth Worker, Behaviour Mentor, Social Worker, Sports Coach, or Residential Care Specialist.

• School Sector Ready: Prior experience working with secondary-aged children (ages 11-16) facing social or behavioural barriers.

• Strong Character: Empathy, resilience, excellent de-escalation skills, and a calm, non-judgemental approach under pressure.

• Local Knowledge: Based in or easily able to commute to various school locations across Preston.

• Fair, Regulated Pay: Remuneration is fully aligned with the official NJC (National Joint Council) Pay Scale, ensuring fair pay for school support staff.

• Fixed-Term Stability: A secure 1-year contract structured around the academic year.

• Professional Development: Continuous safeguarding, behaviour management, and de-escalation training.

Ready to bring your youth work expertise into the classroom and change trajectories for young people in Preston?

Click 'Apply Now' or send your CV directly to