Sports-Based Pastoral Practitioner

Summary:

Sports-Based Pastoral Practitioner role with focus on emotional wellbeing and mentoring through physical activity.

About the School:

A school dedicated to supporting students with high-functioning autism and associated difficulties, offering a structured, inclusive environment with a focus on emotional and academic development.

The Opportunity:

As a Sports-Based Pastoral Practitioner, you will use physical activity as a tool to support emotional regulation, build trust, and improve engagement for students who may not benefit from traditional therapeutic approaches. This role is ideal for someone passionate about helping young people grow through connection, structure, and activity.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan and deliver 1:1 sports-based sessions tailored to the needs of individual pupils
• Build consistent, positive relationships that create opportunities for supported conversations
• Integrate Thrive principles into daily practice
• Observe and document pupils’ emotional and behavioural presentation
• Work in close communication with the lead therapist, pastoral team, mental health lead, and safeguarding team
• Escalate any concerns through the school’s DSL pathway
• Participate in supervision, training, and reflective practice

Qualifications & Skills:

Required

• Experience in sport, coaching, youth support, or mentoring
• A calm, emotionally attuned approach and strong relationship-building skills
• Commitment to safeguarding, inclusive practice, and professional boundaries
• Willingness to undertake Thrive Practitioner training

Preferred

• Understanding of how physical activity supports emotional regulation
• Experience with therapeutic or pastoral support in an educational setting

Compensation & Benefits:

• Full Thrive Practitioner training
• Supportive team culture with regular supervision
• Access to excellent facilities and resources