Learning Support Assistant Apprentice

To support the teaching and learning process. Typically, the job will include all, or most of the following elements under the guidance and direction of the SENCO:

Within the agreed school policies, guidelines and rules, decide on when and how to apply a range of strategies for the benefit of the students in relation to their educational activities, behaviour and care. These decisions often need to be made immediately to deal with the situation presented. On occasions, there will be a need to make immediate decisions, without initial referral to the SENCO, in relation to immediate care, control and safety of students with additional educational or personal needs. Encourage students to work co-operatively with each other within an established behaviour policy; anticipate and manage student behaviour and promote self-control, self-regulation and independence. Provide feedback for students in relation to progress and achievements. Monitor and evaluate student responses to learning activities through a range of assessment and monitoring strategies. Record progress and achievement in lessons and activities. Develop, maintain and apply knowledge and understanding of students’ general and specific learning needs to ensure that support is given to them at an appropriate level. Follow up any concerns and liaise with staff when necessary. Liaise with parents and outside agencies if applicable. Attend meetings for individual students if applicable. Maintain detailed notes to help monitor student progress/attainment. Review and update relevant paperwork. Focusing support in areas needing improvement, both academic and social. Working with and supporting students to ensure they are able to use ICT and other specialist equipment to enhance their learning. Motivate and encourage students to concentrate on and fulfil the tasks set. Undertaking learning activities with students of varying abilities to ensure differentiation and access to the curriculum. Seek to ensure the promotion and reinforcement of students’ self-esteem, appropriate levels of effort, behaviour, and guiding students to become independent learners. Reviewing individual student targets. Assist teaching staff in the development of learning strategies, with the provision of teaching and learning resources and in the preparation and maintenance of a safe, secure and suitable learning environment. Assist in the development, monitoring and evaluation of programmes of work. Photocopy and use ICT systems for administration and educational purposes. Contribute to monitoring of systems for review and recording of students’ progress. Assist in the preparation for educational visits and where appropriate, accompany students. Attend and contribute to meetings and in-service training events, within contracted hours or outside normal hours by agreement
To provide care and supervision of students within the classroom, within the school and outside of the school. When required, supervise students using playgrounds, changing rooms and toilet facilities. A willingness to support students with personal care (training provided). Ensure a safe working environment to ensure compliance with health and safety, including appropriate risk assessments
Contact with all staff in school to pass and receive information, advice, guidance, suggestions and ideas. The ability to attend excursions and residentials, which may extend beyond that of the school day. You may be required to complete any other reasonable duties as directed by your Line Manager / Headteacher within the responsibilities/grade of the post.

Training:

Level 3 Teaching Assistant Standards.

Functional skills in maths, English (Level 2) (if required).

Apprentices will be working towards achieving the knowledge, skills and behaviours for the Teaching Assistant Standard. This is achieved on completion of an externally assessed end-point assessment.

Learners will need to complete a portfolio of evidence to support this, and the EPA consists of the following activities:

Practical observation with questions & answers Professional discussion supported by a portfolio of evidence

Training Outcome:
Whilst we are unable to guarantee a permanent contract at the end of the apprenticeship, we expect opportunities for permanent employment to become available

Employer Description:
The school is housed in beautiful accommodation, which was built twenty-eight years ago in the South of Taunton. The school’s history stretches back a good deal further than this having been originally founded in 1522. Student numbers are at an all-time high of over 1050 and we are planning to expand to 1200 over the next 3 years. There are four secondary schools in Taunton, and in this competitive environment, we are extremely pleased to be oversubscribed in all year groups. It is testament to the efforts of all of our staff and the achievements of our students.

Working Hours :
Working Weeks: Term time only. Working Hours Between: Monday, 08:30 – 15:40, Tuesday - Thursday, 08:30 – 16:30, Friday, 08:30 - 15:05.

Skills:
Communication skills,IT skills,Organisation skills,Problem solving skills,Number skills,Team working,Creative,Initiative,Patience,Diplomacy,Ability to show discretion,Firmness,Flexibility,Empathy,Tact,Good written communication,Good oral communication,Liaising with key stakeholders