New Forest District
Hours: 10–15 hours per week
Start: September 2026
Duration: Full Academic Year 2026/27
Location: New Forest Area
The CatchUp Academy is seeking an experienced, patient, and nurturing tutor/mentor to support a 17-year-old young person with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. This role combines academic tutoring with mentoring and emotional support, requiring a tutor who can build trust, develop confidence, and create an engaging learning environment tailored to the young person's individual strengths and interests.
About the Young Person
This young person experiences expressive and receptive language difficulties, which impact their ability to communicate their needs, process information, and engage consistently with learning. They often communicate more confidently when discussing topics that interest them but may find adult-directed activities, unfamiliar tasks, and complex instructions challenging.
The young person also experiences significant anxiety, low self-esteem, and social communication difficulties. They benefit from a calm, predictable environment and require support from trusted adults who understand the impact that anxiety and autism can have on learning, relationships, and engagement.
Building a positive, trusting relationship will be fundamental to success in this role.
The Role
The successful tutor/mentor will:
* Deliver personalised learning across agreed curriculum areas.
* Support communication, confidence, and emotional wellbeing.
* Build a trusting and consistent relationship through patience and understanding.
* Adapt learning to the young person's interests, strengths, and preferred learning style.
* Use clear, structured communication and visual support where appropriate.
* Help develop independence, self-advocacy, and preparation-for-adulthood skills.
* Support emotional regulation and resilience when anxiety impacts engagement.
* Work collaboratively with parents, professionals, and the wider support team.
We Are Looking For Someone Who:
* Has experience supporting young people with ASD, SEMH, anxiety, or communication needs.
* Understands autism-friendly and neurodiversity-affirming approaches.
* Is patient, empathetic, and relationship-focused.
* Can adapt learning creatively to increase engagement and motivation.
* Is confident balancing academic support with mentoring and wellbeing.
* Can provide consistency, structure, and reassurance while maintaining appropriate boundaries.
Essential Requirements
* Enhanced DBS Certificate.
* Relevant teaching, tutoring, mentoring, youth work, or SEND experience.
* Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
* Ability to differentiate learning and adapt to changing emotional needs.
* Excellent record-keeping and professional communication skills.
This is an excellent opportunity for a tutor who understands that meaningful progress begins with trust, emotional safety, and a personalised approach. The role would suit someone passionate about supporting young people with ASD and SEMH to develop confidence, independence, and positive engagement with learning
Salary description
£25.00 - £30.00 per hour