Alternative Provision Sports Mentor

Freelance Alternative Provision Mentor (Sports-Based Mentoring Intervention)
Location: Salford
Contract Type: Freelance / Self-Employed
Working Pattern: Flexible (term-time, daytime hours)
Rate: Competitive (dependent on experience)

About Us

We are a specialist alternative provision and mentoring organisation delivering 1:1, sport-based interventions for young people aged 8-16. Our work focuses on supporting pupils who are disengaged from education or at risk of exclusion, using sport as a vehicle to build confidence, emotional resilience, discipline, and positive identity.

Working closely with schools, local authorities, and other services to improve attendance, behaviour, wellbeing, and long-term outcomes for young people.

The Role

We are seeking experienced freelance mentors to deliver 1:1 support to young people at our provision. Mentors will work at the provision delivering sports and mentoring sessions alongside working in the local community with young people. This is a freelance, self-employed role; applicants must be able to work independently and manage their own schedule. You will work directly with young people at our site, community settings, schools, or agreed locations, delivering structured sessions that combine physical activity, mentoring, and personal development.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver 1:1 mentoring sessions using sport and physical activity as engagement tools
• Build strong, professional relationships with young people
• Support development in areas such as behaviour, emotional regulation, confidence, and engagement in education
• Implement trauma-informed approaches in all interactions
• Maintain accurate session records and communicate progress with relevant professionals
• Uphold high standards of safeguarding and professional conduct

Essential Requirements

• Proven experience working with young people aged 8-16 in education, alternative provision, youth work, or similar settings
• Strong background or involvement in sport or physical activity
• Solid understanding of safeguarding practices and responsibilities
• Demonstrate resilience, patience, and emotional consistency when working with young people and respond positively to setbacks or difficult situations
• Understanding of Trauma-Informed Practice
• Full driving licence
• Good written communication skills, able to report and record information accurately
• Ability to build rapport, set boundaries, and manage challenging behaviour effectively
• Reliable, professional, and able to work independently
• Enhanced DBS Certificate (or willingness to obtain one)

Desirable

• Experience working with young people at risk of exclusion or involved in alternative provision
• Relevant qualifications in youth work, coaching, education, or mentoring
• Knowledge of SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) needs
• Experience applying Trauma-Informed Practice

What We Offer

• Competitive freelance rates
• Flexible working to suit your availability
• Opportunity to make a genuine impact on young people's lives
• Ongoing support and collaboration with an experienced team

Important Information

• This role is freelance/self-employed only, not a salaried or employed position
• All work is delivered on a 1:1 basis only
• Sessions typically take place during school hours (term-time)

We are committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion across all areas of our work. We believe that every young person and staff member should feel valued, respected and supported to achieve their full potential.

We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those who reflect the diverse communities we work with. Our recruitment process is inclusive, fair and free from discrimination.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All roles are subject to appropriate safeguarding checks, including an enhanced DBS.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV along with a brief statement outlining your experience working with young people and why you are suited to this role to .