Youth Worker – Gypsy, Roma and Traveller

Youth Worker- Gypsy, Roma and Traveller

Location: Leeds

Setting: Alternative Provision

Contract: Full-time, Long-term (with opportunity to become permanent)

Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 am – 4 pm

Term time only 

Start Date: ASAP / To be confirmed

Salary: £100- £110 per day

About the Setting

The role is based within an alternative provision setting in Leeds dedicated to supporting young people who require additional support to engage with education and achieve positive outcomes. The provision works with students who may face barriers to mainstream education and provides tailored learning and pastoral support to help them thrive.

The setting has a strong commitment to inclusion and is particularly focused on improving engagement and outcomes for their students from Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities.

Role Overview

We are seeking a committed and culturally aware Gypsy, Roma, Traveller Youth Worker to support children and young people from GRT communities within the provision.

The successful candidate will play a vital role in building trust with students and their families, supporting engagement in education, and helping young people overcome barriers to attendance, wellbeing and learning.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about advocacy, youth work and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Student Support

• Provide targeted support to Gypsy, Roma and Traveller students to improve engagement, attendance and wellbeing.

• Build positive and trusting relationships with young people.

• Act as a mentor and advocate for students within the provision.

• Support students in managing emotional, social or behavioural challenges.

• Family and Community Engagement

• Develop strong relationships with families from GRT communities.

• Act as a bridge between the provision, families and the wider community.

• Support families in understanding and engaging with education.

• Promote positive attitudes towards education and learning.

Educational Support

• Work alongside teaching staff to support students’ learning and participation in lessons.

• Identify barriers to engagement and help implement strategies to overcome them.

• Support with behaviour management and pastoral care.

• Safeguarding and Inclusion

• Promote a safe, inclusive and culturally respectful environment.

• Be vigilant in safeguarding and report any concerns following safeguarding procedures.

• Champion equality, diversity and inclusion within the setting.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience working with young people or vulnerable learners.

• Understanding of the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities and the challenges they may face in education.

• Strong relationship-building and communication skills.

• Ability to engage hard-to-reach young people.

• Commitment to safeguarding and inclusive practice.

Desirable

• Experience in youth work, alternative provision or education settings.

• Experience working directly with GRT families or communities.

• Relevant qualification in Youth Work, Education, Social Care or Community Work.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to make a meaningful difference to young people’s lives.

• Supportive and inclusive working environment.

• Long-term full-time role with potential for permanent employment.

• Professional development opportunities.

Safeguarding

This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. The setting is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.