Job Description:

Therapeutic Education Practitioner (TEP)

Location: East London (Community-Based)
Salary: Competitive daily rate (long-term agency contract)
Contract: Full-time, Term Time Only
Start Date: September 2026

The Role

Our client is seeking a committed and experienced Therapeutic Education Practitioner (TEP) to support children and young people within community settings across East London.

This is a unique, non-classroom-based role, offering the opportunity to deliver personalised, therapeutic education in real-life environments such as libraries, parks, museums, and other community spaces. The position is offered on a long-term agency basis, with strong potential to transition into a permanent role.

The successful candidate will work closely with pupils who have complex needs, supporting them to achieve their Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) targets while building confidence, resilience, and independence.

Key Responsibilities

The Therapeutic Education Practitioner will:

• Deliver tailored educational support in community settings aligned with EHCP and care plan targets
• Plan and facilitate creative, engaging learning opportunities using local resources
• Conduct and regularly review individual risk assessments
• Build positive relationships with pupils to support emotional regulation and engagement
• Maintain regular communication with families regarding progress, attendance, and wellbeing
• Supervise pupils and act as the appropriate adult during all activities
• Support behaviour development through structured reward systems and positive reinforcement
• Liaise with social care, education, and therapeutic professionals
• Prepare reports for parents, carers, and external agencies
• Ensure safeguarding procedures and accurate record-keeping are consistently maintained

Why Join This Opportunity?

• Meaningful Impact: Play a key role in supporting vulnerable young people to re-engage with education
• Unique Working Environment: Deliver learning beyond the classroom in dynamic, real-world settings
• Professional Development: Gain experience within a multi-disciplinary framework across education, therapy, and social care
• Career Progression: Opportunity for a permanent role following a successful placement

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will be passionate about supporting young people with complex needs and confident working independently in community environments.

Essential requirements:

• Level 2 (or above) in English and Maths (or equivalent)
• Minimum 1 year’s experience working with children or young people with complex or high-risk needs
• Experience supporting behaviour management strategies
• Understanding of SEMH needs and barriers to learning
• Strong awareness of safeguarding responsibilities

Desirable:

• Relevant qualifications in Education, Youth Work, or Social Work
• Understanding of the National Curriculum
• Experience observing and supporting both academic and emotional development

Key skills and attributes:

• Strong communication skills and ability to build rapport with young people
• Ability to work independently and use initiative
• Organised, reliable, and adaptable approach
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusive practice
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries

About the Organisation

Our client is a specialist education provider dedicated to supporting children and young people with complex needs, including social, emotional, and mental health challenges. Their approach focuses on delivering personalised, therapeutic education that promotes engagement, independence, and long-term positive outcomes.

Safeguarding Statement

Our client is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be required to undergo appropriate safeguarding checks, including enhanced DBS, barred list, and qualification verification.

If you feel this would be the ideal vacancy for you, then please apply below or contact our team direct and ask for John Stokes @ SENCare Recruitment.

SENCare Recruitment is fully committed to the safety and welfare of children, and by applying for this vacancy, you are consenting to SENCare Recruitment Ltd storing your personal details in line with the new GDPR regulations.