A Behaviour Support Worker helps children, young people, or adults who have behavioural, emotional, or social difficulties. Most commonly, they work in educational settings such as schools, special educational needs (SEN) units, or alternative provision centres. Their main role is to support individuals in managing their behaviour, encourage positive choices, and help them to succeed in their learning or daily life. Duties include working one-to-one or in small groups, implementing behaviour management strategies, assisting teachers or care staff, and liaising with families and other professionals. The work can be challenging but is highly rewarding, especially when you see positive changes in those you support. It can also lead to further career opportunities in education, social care, or therapy.
Behaviour Support Workers in the UK typically earn between £18,000 and £25,000 per year, with experienced staff earning up to £30,000.
There are over 5,000 behaviour support worker positions advertised each year across the UK, in schools, care homes, and community settings.
Most roles are full time, around 37 hours per week, though part-time and term-time only contracts are also common.
Work specifically with children or adults on the autism spectrum, helping them develop social and communication skills in education or community settings.
Support individual pupils in schools to manage challenging behaviour, develop coping strategies, and improve their engagement with learning.
Provide tailored behaviour support to young people or adults living in residential care homes, helping them build life skills and positive routines.
Complete your GCSEs, especially in English and Maths, as these are often required for further study or employment.
Most employers will expect you to have at least GCSEs in English and Maths at grade 4 or above. Some may also look for qualifications in science or psychology. Good written and verbal communication skills are essential when working with children and supporting their development.
Pursue further education such as A-levels or a college course in health and social care, childcare or psychology.
While not always essential, having A-levels or a relevant Level 2 or 3 qualification (such as a diploma in Childcare, Health and Social Care, or Supporting Teaching and Learning) can improve your chances of securing a role. These courses will give you a deeper understanding of child and adolescent development, learning difficulties, and behaviour management.
Get experience working or volunteering with children or young people, especially those with additional needs.
Look for volunteer opportunities in schools, youth clubs, after-school programmes, or charities that support children with special educational needs. This experience will help you develop practical skills and demonstrate your commitment to employers.
Apply for entry-level positions such as Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant or Care Assistant.
These roles will give you hands-on experience supporting children and young people in educational or care settings. Many Behaviour Support Workers start in these positions and gain valuable insight into behaviour management strategies and support plans.
Undertake training in areas such as safeguarding, managing challenging behaviour or autism awareness.
Employers often provide in-house training, but there are also external courses available through local authorities or organisations like the National Autistic Society. These courses will help you understand the reasons behind different behaviours and how best to support children and young people.
Look for jobs as a Behaviour Support Worker in schools, local authorities or private organisations.
You will need to demonstrate your practical experience and knowledge of behaviour management techniques in your application. Highlight your qualifications, relevant experience, and any specialist training you have completed. Some employers may also require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before you start work.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Behavior Support Worker. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
A Behaviour Support Worker and a Residential Support Worker both work directly with individuals requiring specialised support, often within care or residential settings. Both roles involve assisting with daily routines, implementing behavioural strategies, and promoting well-being for vulnerable populations.
You can get into this job through:
You could take a course at college to learn some of the skills and knowledge you need to do this job.
Courses include:
Many courses include work placements, so this could be a good way for you to get experience.
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
You could apply to do an Adult Care Worker Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, or Lead Adult Care Worker Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
You'll usually need:
You could start as an assistant support worker in a children's or adult care setting. You could then move into a residential support role through training and promotion.
You can get voluntary experience in a number of ways, which can help when applying for paid jobs. This might be from:
To apply directly for jobs in residential support, you'll need a qualification and paid or voluntary experience in the social work and care sector.
Experience in fostering could also be helpful.
Personal qualities are very important in this job. Employers will be looking for:
You can find out more about becoming a residential support worker from Think Care Careers.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
