Learning Support Assistant - Immediately start

Job Description

We are looking for a Learning Support Assistant to join our inclusion team. The role involves supervising and facilitating individual support for the named pupil, with particular reference to IEP targets, ensuring their safety and access to learning activities, including, where appropriate, specialist lessons.

Responsibilities:

1. Supervise the named pupil in small group or one-to-one learning activities in school or away from the main teaching area if group work is in the named pupil’s interests.
2. Communicate effectively and sensitively with the named pupil to support their learning, promoting self-confidence and independence.
3. Assist pupils to develop skills both within the accessible curriculum and on the IEP in one-to-one or group settings.
4. Work with the named pupil, recognizing when it is necessary to make adjustments to planned activities to enable access to the curriculum and/or IEP fully and make progress.
5. Encourage the named pupil to interact with others and engage in activities led by the teacher.
6. Promote the pupil’s self-esteem, independence, academic, physical, and social inclusion and acceptance.
7. Support the use of ICT in learning activities and develop the pupil’s competence and independence in its use.
8. Supervise the named pupil during play/leisure breaks, at times of transition between lessons and activities, and before departure.
9. Provide informal feedback to the named pupil regarding progress and achievement under the guidance of the teacher.
10. Maintain high expectations of the named pupil; respect their social, cultural, linguistic, religious, and ethnic backgrounds; and be committed to raising their educational achievements.
11. Use behavior management strategies in line with the school’s policy and procedures.
12. Attend swimming lessons, either to be on the side of the pool or to enter the water, as required by the Head of Inclusion and the Head of PE.
13. Report to the Head of Inclusion if the LSA pupil is absent.
14. Support the teacher by contributing effectively to lessons and assisting in setting out learning materials appropriate to planned activities for the named pupil.
15. Work within a framework set by the assigned teacher to plan the LSA’s role in lessons, including how to provide feedback to the named pupil and colleagues on pupils’ learning and behavior.
16. Monitor pupils’ participation and progress, providing feedback to the teacher, and giving constructive support to the named pupil as they learn.
17. Annotate work regarding the description of support given.
18. Record achievement/progress of the named pupil as directed by the teacher and Head of Inclusion.
19. Share with the teacher, colleagues, and supporting professionals issues of concern and positive feedback about the pupil’s welfare and achievements.
20. Administer routine tests and invigilate exams and undertake routine marking of pupils’ work as directed by the teacher.
21. Accompany the named pupil on educational visits and take responsibility for the named pupil under the supervision of the teacher.
22. Communicate effectively with the named pupil’s parents via the LSA communication diary and monthly reports based on IEP targets and outcomes.
23. Maintain a file of IEPs, records, minutes, and other relevant documents.
24. Undertake structured and agreed learning activities, adjusting activities according to the named pupil’s responses.
25. Understand and refer to learning objectives relevant to the named pupil within the appropriate framework (e.g., Development Matters, Early Learning Goals, National Curriculum, or P levels).
26. Attend relevant meetings, including with Head of Inclusion, termly Individual Education Plan meetings, and CPD.
27. Ensure the identity of the named pupil and all issues regarding their needs are confidential.
28. Be aware of and support differences, ensuring all pupils have equal access to opportunities to learn and develop.
29. Meet with the assigned classroom teacher(s), colleagues, and Head of Inclusion within employed hours to discuss relevant issues to improve practice and ensure adequate resource allocation.
30. Participate in training activities offered by the school to further knowledge (within employed hours).
31. Take part in the agreed induction program for new Teaching Assistants in accordance with the school’s policy.
32. Attend meetings of the team of Teaching Assistants to discuss issues arising from day-to-day support in the classroom and identify improvements to the service provided.
33. Contribute to the overall ethos/work/aims of the school.
34. Set a good example in terms of dress, punctuality, and attendance.
35. Work in collaboration with other teaching assistants, support staff, and administration, appreciating and supporting their roles.

Skills:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate with pupils, parents, and colleagues.
• Time management and organizational skills.
• Literacy and Numeracy skills.
• ICT capability.

GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of its students and staff. A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is a pre-requisite for all appointments.