A learning mentor works in schools, colleges, or community settings to support students who may be struggling with learning, behaviour, or social skills. The role involves working one-to-one or in small groups with pupils to help them overcome barriers to learning. This may include supporting students with attendance issues, building confidence, developing study skills, or helping with issues like bullying or family problems. Learning mentors work closely with teachers, parents, and other professionals to create tailored support plans for each student. It is a very rewarding career for those who enjoy helping others and making a positive impact on young people's lives.
Learning mentors in the UK typically earn between £18,000 and £28,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
There are approximately 5,000 to 7,000 learning mentors working in schools and colleges across the UK.
Learning mentors usually work around 37 hours per week, mostly during term time.
Supports pupils in primary schools who may be struggling with social, emotional, or behavioural issues, helping them to overcome barriers to learning.
Works specifically with students who have special educational needs, providing tailored support to help them engage with their education.
Focuses on students who have difficulties with behaviour, helping them to develop positive strategies and improve their engagement in school.
Gain at least five GCSEs at grades 4 to 9, including English and Maths, to meet the minimum entry requirements for most further education courses and jobs.
Employers and colleges generally look for a solid foundation in core subjects, especially English and Maths. If you have not achieved these grades, consider resitting exams or taking equivalent qualifications such as Functional Skills.
Pursue A Levels or a Level 3 Diploma in Childcare, Education, or Health and Social Care to deepen your understanding of supporting young people.
Choosing relevant subjects will help you learn about child development, learning difficulties, and support strategies. This education will also make you more competitive when applying for jobs or apprenticeships in educational settings.
Volunteer or work in roles that involve supporting children or young people, such as classroom assistant, sports coach, or youth worker.
Practical experience is highly valued. Look for opportunities in schools, community centres, or local youth groups. This will not only enhance your CV but also help you decide if the role is right for you.
Look for job openings as a Learning Mentor or similar roles in schools, colleges, or local authorities.
Many positions are advertised on local council websites, school websites, or national job boards like TES and Indeed. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience and passion for supporting young people.
Apply for apprenticeships in supporting teaching and learning or youth work to earn while you learn.
Apprenticeships offer a practical route into the field and provide valuable on-the-job training. You will work alongside experienced staff and gain recognised qualifications.
Participate in training and courses on topics such as safeguarding, special educational needs, and behaviour management.
Continued professional development is crucial in education. Many schools offer in-house training or fund external courses to keep staff up-to-date with the latest practices and legislation.
Consider higher-level qualifications such as a Foundation Degree or a BA in Education Studies to open up senior mentoring or pastoral roles.
Further study can help you move into roles like Senior Learning Mentor, Pastoral Leader, or even into teaching. Many universities offer part-time or flexible learning options for those already working in education.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Learning Mentor. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
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Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.
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These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!
A Learning Mentor and a Teaching Assistant both support students' educational and personal development within a school setting. They often collaborate with teachers to help children overcome learning challenges and promote positive learning environments.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a college course to gain some of the skills and knowledge you need to do this job.
Courses include:
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
You could apply to do a Teaching Assistant Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
This takes up to 2 years to complete and is a mix of on-the-job training and learning with a training provider.
You'll usually need:
Volunteering is an excellent way to get experience of working with children and young people. This can also help when looking for jobs.
You can get experience by volunteering in a local school or with a community organisation.
You can apply directly for jobs through schools, local authorities and academy trusts. Each school sets its own entry requirements, though you'll usually need GCSEs grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English and maths.
You'll also need to show that you can work well with children, teachers and parents. Volunteering, or a qualification in nursery work, childcare, playwork or youth work, may give you an advantage when applying for jobs.
Teaching assistants may specialise in the kind of extra support they give, for example with:
Teaching assistants are employed term-time only. A working week can vary from a few hours up to full time.
Advertised pay rates are often listed as full-time equivalent (FTE). Actual pay will depend on the number of hours worked.
You can find more on working as a teaching assistant from Skills for Schools.
You can also search for jobs using the Teaching Vacancies service.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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